Which Long Term ETF Is the Best Match for You?
When it comes to investing, some ETFs are just meant to be.
Like a perfect Valentine’s Day match, the best long-term ETFs offer stability, growth, and a little bit of excitement along the way. Whether you're looking for a reliable partner like a broad-market index fund, a high-yielding dividend ETF that keeps on giving, or a technology-focused fund that sparks innovation, there’s an ETF to fall in love with for the long haul.
In this article, we’ll play matchmaker and highlight the best ETFs to hold forever—because in investing, just like in love, commitment pays off!
VOO: The Steady and Reliable Partner
If you're looking for a long-term love you can count on, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is your rock. This ETF tracks the S&P 500, giving investors exposure to 500 of the largest U.S. companies across various sectors. Like a dependable partner, VOO delivers steady growth over time, making it an ideal long-term core holding for almost any portfolio. If you believe in slow and steady winning the race, VOO might just be the one.
- Assets Under Management: $625 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.03%
- 10-Year Return: 13.21%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
QQQ: The Exciting and Adventurous Flame
For those who crave excitement, the Invesco QQQ ETF (QQQ) brings all the sparks! This fund focuses on the Nasdaq-100, packed with high-growth tech companies like Apple (AAPL), Microsoft (MSFT), and Nvidia (NVDA). It’s the ETF equivalent of a thrilling romance—full of innovation, fast-paced movement, and the potential for big rewards. If you're looking for an investment with passion and energy, QQQ can be a good match.
- Assets Under Management: $331.5 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.20%
- 10-Year Return: 18.36%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
SCHD: The Thoughtful and Generous Companion
Looking for an ETF that keeps giving? The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) is like a sweetheart who remembers every anniversary. It invests in high-quality, dividend-paying stocks, providing both income and stability. With its focus on financially strong companies, and averaging a 3.71% yield, SCHD is for investors who appreciate steady, long-term returns and a little extra cash flow to sweeten the deal.
- Assets Under Management: $67.5 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.06%
- 10-Year Return: 10.97%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
SMH: The Brilliant and Ambitious Visionary
If intelligence and ambition win your heart, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) is the dream partner. This ETF holds top semiconductor companies like Nvidia (NVDA) and AMD, powering everything from AI to smartphones. Like a lover with big dreams, SMH is always looking ahead, making it a great choice for those who believe in the future of technology.
- Assets Under Management: $23 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.35%
- 10-Year Return: 25.77%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
XBI: The Risky But Passionate Love
For investors who love a little risk and excitement, SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) is a wild but intriguing choice. This ETF focuses on biotech stocks, where breakthrough innovations can lead to major wins—or heartbreaking losses. If you’re drawn to bold moves, scientific discovery, and a future with potential to look better than the past, XBI is the kind of passionate investment that could sweep you off your feet.
- Assets Under Management: $6 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.35%
- 10-Year Return: 3.12%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
BND: The Stable and Supportive Partner
When life gets unpredictable, the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND) is like a caring, supportive partner who’s always there to steady you. Investing in a broad mix of U.S. bonds, BND provides a cushion during volatile times. For fixed-income investors looking for broad diversification and peace of mind, BND is the definition of a happily ever after.
- Assets Under Management: $122.8 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.03%
- 10-Year Return: 1.27%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
VXUS: The Worldly and Adventurous Soulmate
If you’re looking for a globally minded partner, the Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is the perfect catch. This ETF gives exposure to international stocks, diversifying your portfolio beyond U.S. markets. Like a love that takes you on adventures around the world, VXUS helps investors explore opportunities in Europe, Asia, and emerging markets. If you believe in spreading your love (and investments) around the world, VXUS is a great fit.
- Assets Under Management: $79.1 billion
- Expense Ratio: 0.05%
- 10-Year Return: 5.26%
Data as of Feb. 12, 2025.
