The Review
Vanguard is the world's largest provider of mutual funds and the second-largest provider of ETFs, with over $9 trillion in global assets under management. Founded by John Bogle in 1975, Vanguard invented the index fund and changed the investing world forever by proving that low-cost, passive investing beats most active managers over time.
Vanguard's structure is unique: the company is owned by the funds it manages, which are in turn owned by fund shareholders. This means Vanguard has no outside owners demanding profits, so they can continually lower fees. The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) charges just 0.03% per year — three cents for every hundred dollars invested.
The platform itself is functional but not flashy. The website and app are focused on long-term investing, not day trading. Vanguard Personal Advisor (0.30% fee) pairs robo-advisor technology with access to human CFP advisors. For buy-and-hold investors who want the lowest costs in the industry, Vanguard remains the gold standard.
Why It Ranks #21
John Bogle invented the index fund, and Vanguard's unique ownership structure keeps costs lower than any competitor. $9 trillion in assets proves the philosophy works. The foundation of passive investing.
Key Stats
$9T+
Assets Under Mgmt.
0.03%
Lowest Expense Ratio
50M+
Investor Accounts
First (1976)
Index Funds Created
Key Features
Fun Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vanguard?
Vanguard is the world's largest provider of mutual funds and the second-largest provider of ETFs, with over $9 trillion in global assets under management. Founded by John Bogle in 1975, Vanguard invented the index fund and changed the investing world forever by proving that low-cost, passive investing beats most active managers over time.
How much does Vanguard cost?
Vanguard pricing: Free trading | Fund expense ratios from 0.03%. It is best for Index Fund Investors & Buy-and-Hold Strategists.
Why is Vanguard ranked #21?
John Bogle invented the index fund, and Vanguard's unique ownership structure keeps costs lower than any competitor. $9 trillion in assets proves the philosophy works. The foundation of passive investing.
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