The bond exchange-traded fund (ETF) market has hit a significant milestone, with the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF surpassing $100 billion in assets. As the first ETF to achieve this feat, it is closely followed by the iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF, which currently boasts $96 billion in assets. These impressive inflows reflect the enduring popularity of low-cost ETFs and investors’ increasing appetite for bonds.
The Growing Popularity of ETFs
ETFs have emerged as a preferred investment vehicle for many investors. According to Sara Devereux, the global head of fixed income at Vanguard, the second-largest asset manager worldwide, the ETF space has witnessed substantial growth, particularly within the fixed income sector. Vanguard, with its strong presence in the fixed-income ETF market, manages approximately $400 billion in this category alone.
Leading Bond ETFs
The Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF and its competitor, the iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF, both track a variation of the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (also known as the “Agg”). Over the past decade, both funds have outperformed around 60% of their peers in the Morningstar Intermediate Core Bond fund category.
Impressive Performance
In terms of returns, the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF has achieved a total return of 2% this year, surpassing the 1.64% increase seen in the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index.
This significant achievement underscores the continued growth and success of bond ETFs in meeting investor demands for low-cost investments with exposure to fixed-income markets.
The Importance of Diversifying with Fixed Income
As investors navigate the complex world of investing, many have come to realize the benefits of diversification. One strategy that has gained popularity is combining fixed income with equity exposure. Todd Rosenbluth, the head of research at VettaFi, a financial research and data company, explains the advantages of this approach.
The Role of Bonds in a Diversified Portfolio
According to Rosenbluth, bonds offer a valuable source of income and serve as a buffer against stock market volatility. Specifically, he highlights Vanguard’s Total Bond Market ETF as an attractive option for investors seeking both income and downside protection.
Pairing Vanguard Funds for Enhanced Diversification
In practice, many investors are pairing the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF with either the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF or the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF. This combination allows investors to achieve a low-cost and diversified portfolio, which Vanguard consistently delivers.
Bond Strategies: A Promising Outlook for 2024
Rosenbluth suggests that bond strategies are poised to perform better in 2024 compared to this year. One factor contributing to this positive outlook is the potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. Even if interest rates remain high over the long term, it is unlikely that the Fed will continue raising rates in 2024. This means that investors can expect to receive income from bonds while potentially benefiting from price appreciation as well.
In conclusion, diversification with fixed income can be a sound investment strategy. By combining bonds with equity exposure, investors can enjoy the income and protection bonds offer while achieving greater overall portfolio diversification. For those looking to capitalize on this approach, the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF, when paired with other Vanguard funds, presents an excellent investment opportunity.
