Are there alternatives to VTSAX?

Yes, there are several alternatives to VTSAX that you may consider, depending on your investment goals and preferences:

1. Vanguard Mid Cap Index Fund (VIMAX) and Vanguard Small Cap Index Fund (VSmax): These funds offer exposure to mid-cap and small-cap companies, respectively, which may provide higher return potential compared to VTSAX. Over a ten-year period, VIMAX had a return of 7.48%, and VSmax had a return of 7.83%, outperforming VTSAX's 7.37%. For long-term performance since inception in 2000, VTSAX returned 6.22%, while VSmax returned 9.9% 1.

2. Total Stock Market ETFs: Funds like VTi (Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF) and VOO (S&P 500 ETF) can be more accessible and have similar low expense ratios. The ETF versions allow for buying in smaller increments, making them suitable for investors who do not have a large amount to start with initially 2 3.

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     Investment Fund Alternatives

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     2

     Investment Fund Insights

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     3

     Schwab vs. Vanguard

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3. Charles Schwab's Total Stock Market Index Fund (SWTSX): This is virtually identical to VTSAX but offers advantages such as no minimum investment requirement and lower fees. It's a strong option for those who want to begin investing with smaller amounts and still benefit from low costs and diversified exposure 3.

These alternatives provide similar benefits to VTSAX, such as broad market exposure and low costs, but may better align with your investment strategy or financial situation.