May 6, 2025

Ron Finklestien

“Boost Your Portfolio with This Exceptional Vanguard ETF: A Shield Against Market Volatility”

Market Volatility Presents Opportunities: Invest in Vanguard ETF

The stock market has experienced significant volatility in recent months. However, one positive outcome is the availability of several higher-priced investments at reduced prices. Investors can take advantage of this turbulence to purchase stocks at a discount, positioning themselves for potential gains when the market recovers.

Finding the Right Investment for $1,000

Not every investment will weather economic instability well. While no single investment suits all portfolios, one standout option is the Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF (NYSEMKT: MGK). This ETF not only aims to boost your earnings but also offers some protection against market fluctuations.

Person with a serious expression looking at a computer.

Image source: Getty Images.

A Strong Performer with Limited Risk

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) consist of a collection of securities bundled into a single investment. By investing in one share of an ETF, you gain exposure to each stock within the fund. The Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF comprises 69 large-cap stocks, typically defined as companies with a market capitalization exceeding $200 billion. These dominant companies are industry leaders with extensive experience navigating market volatility.

This ETF may present lower risks compared to other growth funds that focus on smaller, emerging stocks. Notably, its three largest holdings are Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia, which collectively account for nearly 37% of the fund.

^SPX Chart

^SPX data by YCharts

Despite its relative safety, the Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF has proven to be a strong wealth-building tool. Over the past decade, it has achieved an average annual return of 15.26%. In comparison, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF delivered an average of 12.27%, while the broader market has historically returned about 10% per year.

Potential Growth Calculation

If you invest $200 monthly, here’s how potential future average returns of 15%, 12%, or 10% per year could accumulate over time:

Number of Years Total Portfolio Value: 10% Avg. Annual Return Total Portfolio Value: 12% Avg. Annual Return Total Portfolio Value: 15% Avg. Annual Return
20 $137,000 $173,000 $246,000
25 $236,000 $320,000 $511,000
30 $395,000 $579,000 $1,043,000
35 $650,000 $1,036,000 $2,115,000

Data source: Author’s calculations via investor.gov.

Even if this ETF does not continue to outperform the market as it has in the past, investors can still accumulate substantial wealth over time.

Be Mindful of Market Conditions

It is essential to consider the potential for market decline before investing. Analysts at J.P. Morgan have projected a 60% chance of a recession by year-end, which could lead to a bear market.

If you choose to invest now, be prepared to keep your investment in place for at least five years. Selling prematurely in a downturn could result in locking in significant losses. However, remaining invested through market fluctuations can lead to recovery and eventual profit.

Given that the Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF is composed solely of large corporations, it is positioned to potentially weather a recession more effectively. Yet, patience is key; staying invested through the ups and downs is required to realize these long-term benefits.

Investing during volatile market periods can be a prudent strategy for building wealth, and the Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF can help to mitigate risk. By consistently investing and taking a long-term perspective, you not only can endure downturns but also can prosper.

Is Now the Right Time to Invest $1,000 in Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF?

Before purchasing stocks in the Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF, consider the following:

The Stock Advisor analyst team has identified what they consider the 10 best stocks for investors currently. Notably, Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF was not included in this list, which features stocks poised for possible significant returns in the years ahead.

For example, consider Netflix from December 17, 2004; an investment of $1,000 at that time would now be worth $611,589! Likewise, Nvidia, recommended on April 15, 2005, would have turned the same investment into $697,613!

It’s important to note that Stock Advisor has achieved an impressive average return of 894%, far surpassing the S&P 500’s return of 163%.

Katie Brockman has positions in Vanguard S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool recommends stocks including Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF.

The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.