ETFs vs. Mutual Funds — Key Differences
Both ETFs and mutual funds hold baskets of securities, but they differ in structure and mechanics.
ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds):
Trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks (intraday trading)
Generally lower expense ratios
No minimum investment (buy 1 share at market price)
Tax efficient — rarely distribute capital gains
Can be passive (index) or active
Mutual Funds:
Priced once daily at NAV (net asset value)
Often have minimum investments ($1,000–$3,000)
Can trigger capital gains distributions (taxable event for investors)
Some offer automatic investment of any dollar amount
Index ETF vs. Index Mutual Fund:
Functionally nearly identical for long-term investors
ETF: slightly more tax-efficient; no minimums
Index mutual fund: convenient auto-invest; fractional shares easier
Top providers:
Vanguard — pioneered low-cost index funds; investor-owned
Fidelity — zero expense ratio index funds (FZROX)
iShares (BlackRock) — largest ETF provider
Schwab — very low cost, excellent customer service
Reference:
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