Exploring the Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund (VGTSX) – Mutual Fund Equity Report

In the world of mutual funds, one name that has been making waves recently is the Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund (VGTSX). This fund, which is part of the Vanguard Group family, has been steadily gaining popularity among investors looking for exposure to international equities.

Managed by Michael Perre since November 2010, VGTSX has amassed over $173.96 billion in assets since its inception in April 1996. With a focus on international stocks, this fund has been attracting investors who are seeking diversification beyond domestic markets.

When it comes to performance, VGTSX has shown solid returns over the past few years. With a 5-year annualized total return of 3.42%, the fund sits in the middle third among its category peers. Additionally, its 3-year annualized total return of 4.28% also places it in the middle third during this time frame.

However, it is important to consider the fund’s volatility as well. VGTSX has a standard deviation of 17.56% over the past three years, which is higher than the category average of 15.15%. This means that the fund has experienced more volatility compared to its peers. Similarly, over the past 5 years, the standard deviation of the fund is 18.22%, higher than the category average of 15.92%.

In terms of risk factors, VGTSX has a 5-year beta of 0.86, indicating that it is likely to be less volatile than the market average. However, the fund has a negative alpha of -5.66 over the past 5 years, suggesting that the managers have struggled to outperform the benchmark (S&P 500).

When it comes to expenses, VGTSX is a no-load fund with an expense ratio of 0.17%, lower than the category average of 0.80%. This makes VGTSX a cost-effective option for investors looking to minimize fees and maximize returns.

Overall, VGTSX presents a compelling option for investors seeking exposure to international equities. With solid performance, relatively low expenses, and a seasoned manager at the helm, this fund has the potential to deliver strong returns over the long term.

For more information on VGTSX and other mutual funds, investors can visit www.zacks.com/funds/mutual-funds. Additionally, for stock investors, exploring Zacks Rank and other tools available on the website can provide valuable insights for both novice and professional investors alike.

In conclusion, VGTSX stands out as a strong mutual fund pick in the current market environment. With a focus on international stocks, solid performance, and competitive expenses, this fund has the potential to generate attractive returns for investors looking to diversify their portfolios.