Meet the Unstoppable Vanguard ETF Obliterating the S&P 500 in 2026

The Vanguard Russell 2000 ETF is outperforming the S&P 500 in 2026, gaining 19% versus 9% for the benchmark index. Small-cap domestic companies are benefiting from geopolitical tensions affecting multinational corporations, favorable government policies including tariffs, and reduced regulations. The Russell 2000's exposure to companies like Bloom Energy and Credo Technology, which are primarily domestically focused, is insulating them from international risks.