A Smarter Alternative to the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF for Risk-Aware Investors

The Vanguard U.S. Minimum Volatility ETF (VFMV) offers risk-aware investors a middle ground between full equity market exposure and cash holdings. The actively managed fund holds 186 stocks with lower volatility than the broader market, returned 49.3% over three years, and charges a competitive 0.13% expense ratio. However, investors should understand the trade-off: while it reduces downside risk during market downturns, it may lag during bull markets.