XEQT vs VFV: Global vs S&P 500, Compared
Compare XEQT and VFV side by side: MER, holdings, geographic allocation and yield. VFV is the S&P 500 in Canadian dollars; XEQT is the whole world. See what that difference costs.
| Measure | XEQTiShares Core Equity ETF Portfolio | VFVVanguard S&P 500 Index ETF |
|---|---|---|
| MER What actually comes out of your return each year | 0.20% | 0.09% |
| Management fee The manager's cut, before fund operating costs | 0.18% | 0.08% |
| Stocks held Individual companies you end up owning | 9,000* | 503 |
| Direct holdings What the fund itself holds. Low for a fund of funds | 8 | 1 |
| Assets under management Fund size | $21.7B CAD | $35.2B CAD |
| Distribution yield Trailing 12-month | 1.55% | 0.82% |
| 1-year total return Past performance, not a forecast | 26.39% | 22.49% |
| Equity allocation The rest is bonds or cash | 100% | 100% |
| Listed on | TSX | TSX |
| Currency | CAD | CAD |
| Structure | Fund of funds | Holds a single underlying US-listed ETF |
| Launched | 2019 | 2012 |
Where the money actually goes
XEQT
VFV
What the fee difference costs you
Growth projections use a user-adjustable expected return, defaulting to 7%, and are applied net of each fund's MER so the fee drag is visible. They are not forecasts and deliberately do not extrapolate the trailing return: the trailing year shown below was an unusually strong one for global equities and projecting it forward would be misleading.
Data as of
XEQT 2026-08-15 (source)
, VFV 2026-08-15 (source)
.
* Marked figures could not be confirmed against a primary source and are provisional.
MER and fee figures change; the fund's own factsheet is always the authority.
VFV vs. XEQT: An In-Depth Comparison for Canadian Investors
When it comes to investing in ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds), Canadian investors have a plethora of options. Among the myriad of choices, two ETFs often stand out for their broad market exposure and potential for long-term growth: VFV (Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF) and XEQT (iShares Core Equity ETF Portfolio). Both ETFs are popular for their distinct strategies and underlying assets, making them appealing to different types of investors. This blog post delves into an in-depth comparison of VFV and XEQT, covering their investment strategies, asset allocations, performance history, fees, and suitability for investors.
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VFV is designed to track the performance of the S&P 500 Index, which represents 500 of the largest U.S. companies. It is a straightforward approach to gaining exposure to the U.S. equity market, making it an attractive option for investors looking to invest in some of the world’s largest and most influential companies. VFV is a pure play on the U.S. economy, with sectors such as technology, healthcare, and consumer discretionary taking the lead in its portfolio.
XEQT, on the other hand, offers a more diversified approach. It is an all-in-one ETF portfolio that aims to provide long-term capital growth by investing primarily in Canadian, U.S., and international equity securities. XEQT is composed of a mix of iShares ETFs, diversifying across not just sectors but also geographies. This ETF is suitable for investors seeking broad global equity exposure in a single ETF.
Performance History
When comparing the performance of VFV and XEQT, it’s important to consider their market focus and historical returns. VFV, by tracking the S&P 500, has benefited from the robust performance of U.S. equities, particularly the tech sector, over the past decade. Its performance closely mirrors that of the S&P 500 Index, offering significant growth during bull markets.
XEQT, with its diversified portfolio, aims to reduce volatility through geographic and sector diversification. While it may not match the highs of the S&P 500 in its best years due to its broader allocation, it may offer a smoother investment journey with potentially lower dips during market downturns.
Fees and Expenses
The cost of investing in ETFs is another critical factor to consider. VFV boasts a low management expense ratio (MER), making it a cost-effective way to gain exposure to the S&P 500. XEQT, while slightly more expensive in terms of MER, offers the benefit of diversification across multiple markets and sectors, which can justify the additional cost for those seeking a global investment strategy.
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Choosing between VFV and XEQT ultimately depends on the investor’s financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. VFV is ideal for investors looking for exposure to the U.S. equity market and who are confident in the long-term growth of U.S. companies. It’s suitable for those with a higher risk tolerance, given its focus on a single market.
XEQT is more suited to investors seeking global diversification to mitigate risk. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer a “set it and forget it” investment that covers various markets and sectors. XEQT may appeal to investors with a long-term investment horizon who are looking for growth across a broader portfolio.
Conclusion
Both VFV and XEQT offer compelling opportunities for investors, but their suitability depends on individual investment goals and risk preferences. VFV offers a focused approach on the U.S. equity market, ideal for those bullish on U.S. companies. In contrast, XEQT provides a diversified global equity exposure, suitable for investors seeking a balanced and broad investment. Before making any investment decision, it’s essential to consider your investment strategy, consult with a financial advisor, and thoroughly research each option.
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