How do the expense ratios of IEF and TLT compare?

Both IEF and TLT have an identical expense ratio of 0.15%. Since there is no difference in fees, investors comparing these two funds will not see cost as a differentiating factor based on expense ratios alone. When fees are equal, other characteristics like duration or yield become more relevant for comparison.

What does the index tracking information tell us about IEF and TLT?

The index tracked by each fund is listed as 'not available' in the current data. This means specific benchmark details cannot be verified. Investors should be aware that without clear index information, it is harder to assess exact replication methods. Generally, both aim to track Treasury bonds, but specific methodology remains undisclosed here.

How do the dividend yields of IEF and TLT differ?

TLT currently offers a higher dividend yield of 4.76% compared to IEF's 4.06%. This difference reflects the distinct characteristics of long-term versus intermediate-term Treasury bonds. However, higher yields do not guarantee better returns, as they come with different risk profiles. Investors should consider yield alongside other factors when evaluating these funds.

What is the overlap in top holdings between IEF and TLT?

The data indicates that there are none shared among the listed top holdings for IEF and TLT. Additionally, top holdings for both funds are marked as 'not available' in the detailed metrics. This lack of shared visible holdings suggests different portfolios, though specific composition details are not disclosed in this comparison context.

How large are the net assets in IEF and TLT?

TLT has net assets of $46.7 billion, which is slightly larger than IEF's $41.9 billion. Both figures indicate substantial fund size and liquidity, typically reducing trading costs and bid-ask spreads. While TLT is larger, both funds are significant enough for most retail investors, offering deep markets for efficient trading.

What are the differences in inception dates for IEF and TLT?

Both IEF and TLT were established on 22 July 2002. This shared inception date means both funds have over two decades of operational history, providing long-term performance data for comparison. Having similar lifespans allows for a like-for-like historical assessment of how each fund has navigated various market cycles.

Why do IEF and TLT have different yields?

The yield difference stems from the duration of the underlying bonds. IEF focuses on 7-10 year Treasury bonds, while TLT targets 20+ year Treasury bonds. Longer-duration bonds typically offer higher yields to compensate for greater interest rate risk. This structural difference explains why TLT's yield exceeds IEF's, reflecting market pricing for time value.

Which investing goal is IEF typically associated with?

IEF is commonly associated with investors seeking intermediate-term exposure to US Treasury bonds. It is often used in portfolios to balance equity risk or for those wanting duration shorter than long-term bonds. The 7-10 year focus provides a middle ground, potentially offering less volatility than very long-dated bonds while maintaining government credit quality.

What type of investor might look at TLT?

TLT is often considered by investors looking for long-term government bond exposure or a hedge against deflation. Its 20+ year duration means it is sensitive to interest rate changes. Some investors use it for capital preservation or as part of a diversified portfolio's fixed-income sleeve, accepting higher volatility for potential yield.

How transparent is the portfolio composition for these ETFs?

Sector weights and top holdings are currently listed as 'not available' for both IEF and TLT in this dataset. This limits the ability to analyse detailed concentration risks or specific sector allocations. Investors relying on this comparison should note that deeper portfolio transparency is required for comprehensive due diligence.

Does IEF offer better liquidity than TLT?

Both funds have very high net assets, over $40 billion, suggesting strong liquidity for both. TLT has slightly more assets ($46.7 billion vs $41.9 billion), but both are major iShares Treasury ETFs. Practically, bid-ask spreads are likely very tight for both, making liquidity a neutral factor in this specific comparison.

What is the educational disclaimer for this comparison?

This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It is based on public data, which may change over time. Investors should consider their own financial situation, risk tolerance, and investment objectives. Always conduct further research or consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

IEF vs TLT

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

Compare IEF (iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF) and TLT (iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF) on fees, holdings, and dividends. Both have a 0.15% expense ratio. Explore how each fund tracks its market and current yields. Educational content, not financial advice.

Fund Snapshot

Key Fund Metrics

IEF

Metric

TLT

0.15%

Expense Ratio

0.15%

4.06%

Dividend Yield

4.76%

$41.92B

Net Assets

$46.71B

Holdings

Jul 22, 2002

Inception Date

Jul 22, 2002

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Index Tracked

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Long Government

Fund Category

Long Government

Both funds charge the same annual fee.

Shared Top Holdings

These funds do not share any of their top holdings.

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Investment Analysis

IEF

Pros

IEF features a low 0.15% expense ratio suitable for long-term investors.
With $41.9 billion in net assets, IEF offers strong liquidity for trading.
Established in July 2002, IEF has a long operational track record.

Considerations

The 4.06% dividend yield is lower than longer-duration alternatives.
Specific index tracking details are currently not available for verification.
Top holdings and sector weights are not available in the data.

TLT

Pros

TLT provides a higher 4.76% yield compared to shorter-duration Treasury funds.
Net assets of $46.7 billion indicate very deep market liquidity.
Inception in July 2002 offers substantial historical performance data.

Considerations

TLT lacks disclosed top holdings, preventing detailed concentration analysis.
Sector weights are unavailable, limiting transparency on portfolio composition.
Index tracking methodology is not available, creating uncertainty on replication.

About IEF and TLT

IEF (IEF)

The iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF (IEF) offers investors exposure to medium-term U.S. government bonds. With an average maturity between 7 and 10 years, it sits in the middle of the duration spectrum, aiming to balance income generation with some sensitivity to interest rate movements. As an ETF, it trades on stock exchanges like a share, providing flexibility for buying and selling throughout the trading day. The fund has an expense ratio of 0.15%, which is relatively low for active fixed-income products, though as an index-tracking ETF, costs are managed efficiently. It holds 18 positions, reflecting its focus on specific treasury notes. Investors often use IEF as a component of a diversified portfolio to potentially dampen equity volatility or hedge against economic uncertainty, bearing in mind that bond prices can fluctuate with changes in market interest rates and inflation expectations.

TLT (TLT)

The iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (TLT) offers investors exposure to U.S. government bonds with maturities of 20 years or longer. As a long-term government bond fund, it is often influenced significantly by interest rate changes and economic outlooks. When interest rates fall, bond prices generally rise, and vice versa. With a modest expense ratio of 0.15% and net assets of USD 46.71 billion, it is a widely traded vehicle for those looking to diversify beyond equities. The fund holds 49 underlying assets and has an inception date of July 2002. It currently provides a dividend yield of approximately 4.76%. Investors should note that the value of this fund can fluctuate due to changes in long-term interest rates and inflation expectations, meaning returns are not guaranteed. It suits those seeking potential income or diversification, though it carries risks related to interest rate sensitivity.

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IEF vs TLT

Fund Snapshot