What is the primary difference in cost between EMB and VWOB?

EMB has an expense ratio of 0.39%, while VWOB's is 0.15%. This means VWOB is significantly cheaper to hold. A lower expense ratio can improve net returns over time, as less money is taken out of the fund for management fees. Investors should consider this difference carefully, as it compounds over long holding periods.

How does the inception date of these funds matter?

EMB was launched on December 17, 2007, whereas VWOB started on May 31, 2013. The earlier inception of EMB means it has a longer performance history. However, older funds do not necessarily outperform newer ones. This data point helps investors understand the track record length available for evaluation, but past performance does not guarantee future results.

Are these funds actively managed or index-based?

Both EMB and VWOB are described as tracking indices, though the specific indexes are not available in this data. Generally, Vanguard's VWOB is known for an index-tracking approach, which aligns with its lower fee. iShares' EMB may also track an index but with a potentially different methodology. The 'Index tracked' field is currently not available for either.

Which fund has a higher dividend yield?

VWOB offers a dividend yield of 5.95%, compared to EMB's 5.21%. A higher yield means the fund distributes more cash per dollar invested, based on current price. However, yield is influenced by bond prices and interest rates. Investors should look at yield in context with credit quality and duration, not just as a standalone metric.

How large are the assets under management?

EMB manages $13.9 billion in net assets, while VWOB holds $6.2 billion. Larger funds may benefit from economies of scale and higher liquidity, but size alone does not ensure better performance. Both funds are substantial in the emerging markets bond sector, providing investors with access to diverse portfolios across their respective structures.

What is the overlap in top holdings?

The data indicates there are no shared top-10 holdings between EMB and VWOB. This suggests that the two funds invest in different specific bonds or companies within the emerging markets sector. A lack of overlap implies that holding both could offer broader diversification, but their specific individual holdings are not listed as 'not available'.

What sectors do these funds primarily focus on?

Both funds fall under the 'Emerging Markets Bond' category. This means they primarily invest in debt issued by companies or governments in developing economies. Such investments are sensitive to global economic shifts, currency fluctuations, and local political stability. The specific sector weights within the bonds are not available in the current dataset.

How do the funds' expense ratios affect long-term returns?

Over time, the 0.24 percentage point difference (0.39% vs 0.15%) can significantly impact compound returns. For every $10,000 invested, VWOB charges $15 annually in fees, while EMB charges $39. This cost differential means VWOB needs to earn less gross return to match EMB's net return, assuming all other factors remain equal.

What type of investor is typically associated with VWOB?

VWOB, with its lower expense ratio and Vanguard branding, is often considered suitable for cost-conscious investors seeking broad exposure to emerging markets government bonds. Its higher yield might appeal to income-focused investors. However, all investors must assess their own risk tolerance and financial goals before making any decisions.

Is EMB better for experienced investors?

EMB has a longer track record and higher assets, which might appeal to investors prioritising liquidity and historical data. The term 'better' is subjective and depends on individual strategy. Neither fund is recommended over the other; both require careful consideration of fees, yields, and portfolio fit. This is educational information, not advice.

EMB vs VWOB

Two funds, one decision: we compare cost, performance and what each ETF actually holds in September 2026.

Compare EMB and VWOB, emerging market bond funds from iShares and Vanguard, by fees, holdings and dividends. See how each tracks its market with differing expense ratios: 0.39% for EMB and 0.15% for VWOB. Educational content, not financial advice.

Compare EMB and VWOB, emerging market bond funds from iShares and Vanguard, by fees, holdings and dividends. See how each tracks its market with differing expense ratios: 0.39% for EMB and 0.15% for V...

Fund Snapshot

Key Fund Metrics

EMB

Metric

VWOB

0.39%

Expense Ratio

0.15%

5.21%

Dividend Yield

5.95%

$13.88B

Net Assets

$6.23B

618

Holdings

944

Dec 17, 2007

Inception Date

May 31, 2013

–

Index Tracked

–

Emerging Markets Bond

Fund Category

Emerging Markets Bond

VWOB costs about $24.00 less per year for every $10,000 invested.

Shared Top Holdings

These funds do not share any of their top holdings.

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Investment Analysis

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VWOB

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About EMB and VWOB

EMB (EMB)

iShares JPMorgan USD Emerging Markets Bond ETF (EMB) is an exchange‑traded fund that seeks exposure to US dollar‑denominated sovereign and quasi‑sovereign bonds issued by emerging market countries. It tracks a J.P. Morgan index of external debt, offering investors broad country diversification and regular income through bond coupons. EMB can provide a yield pickup versus many developed‑market government bonds, but that potential return comes with greater credit, political and liquidity risk. As a USD‑denominated vehicle, it reduces direct currency risk for US dollar investors but non‑USD investors will face FX fluctuations. The fund is sensitive to US interest‑rate moves and emerging‑market credit spreads, so prices can be volatile in stressed markets. This summary is for educational purposes only and is not personal financial advice; suitability depends on an investor’s objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance, and capital is at risk.

VWOB (VWOB)

Vanguard Emerging Markets Government Bond ETF (VWOB) is an exchange-traded fund that provides investors with exposure to sovereign debt issued by emerging-market governments. It is designed to track an index of government bonds from a range of developing countries, offering potential income through interest payments and diversification away from developed-market fixed income. As an ETF, VWOB trades on an exchange and its market price can differ slightly from net asset value; market cap is typically not used for ETFs (Market Cap: N/A). Key considerations include interest-rate sensitivity, sovereign and credit risk specific to emerging markets, and currency fluctuations that can affect returns. Investors should review the fund’s yield, tracking error, expense ratio and turnover in the prospectus. This information is general and educational: bond values and yields can rise or fall and past performance is not a guide to the future. Consider whether the risks fit your objectives and consult a financial professional if unsure.

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