Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF

VEA

Market cap $185B

Vanguard remains one of the top exchange traded fund (ETF) providers in the market.

The Vanguard Utilities ETF (VPU) provides defensive exposure with one-third to one-half of returns coming from dividends. The iShares 20 Plus Year Treasury Bond ETF (TLT) offers 4.3% yield and hedges against stock market corrections.

The international ETFs have had quite the impressive year, outperforming the likes of the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:VOO) as well as the Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:QQQ) so far this year while rolling over far fewer bumps in the road.

In terms of top exchange traded fund (ETF) providers I think investors should consider, Vanguard remains a top pick of mine.

The billionaire hedge funds have been buying and selling plenty of individual names over the past quarter.

It's been a good year for international equity ETFs. As a category, broad exposure funds tapping into both developed and emerging market equities have delivered outsized gains relative to U.S. markets this year, as well as much sought portfolio diversification.

IEFA and VEA both offer broad developed-market coverage. However, IEFA excludes Canada and carries a higher fee.

This ETF is on a stellar run in 2025, and more of the same could be in store next year. It provides exposure to a resurgent asset class, and that rebound is still in its infancy.

The SPDR Portfolio Developed World ex-US ETF and the Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF both target developed markets outside the United States. The Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF offers broader diversification and a slightly higher yield.

Both ETF's sport a rock-bottom expense ratio. Vanguard's fund holds 60% more stocks.