iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF
ASX 200 ETFs Compared
Compare Australia's ASX 200 ETFs — IOZ vs STW vs A200 vs VAS. Find the cheapest and most popular way to invest in Australia's top 200 companies.
ASX 200 ETFs — Which One Is Best?
Three ETFs track the S&P/ASX 200 directly (IOZ, STW, A200), while VAS tracks the broader ASX 300. Here's how they compare:
Fee Comparison
A200 (BetaShares) is cheapest at 0.04%. IOZ and STW charge 0.05%. VAS (ASX 300, 0.07%) adds 100 extra smaller companies.
AUM & Liquidity
IOZ is the largest at A$14.5B, followed by VAS (A$13.8B), STW (A$6.2B), and A200 (A$5.8B). All have excellent liquidity for everyday investors.
The Verdict
Performance is virtually identical. Choose A200 for lowest fee, IOZ for largest AUM, VAS for broadest exposure, or STW for longest track record.
SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Fund
BetaShares Australia 200 ETF
Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF
Frequently asked questions
What are ASX 200 ETFs?
ASX 200 ETFs are exchange-traded funds that track the S&P/ASX 200 Index, which includes the 200 largest companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
Which ASX 200 ETF is the best?
There is no single 'best' ETF. IOZ is best for size and liquidity, A200 is the cheapest, VAS offers broader exposure, and STW has the longest track record.
What is the cheapest ASX 200 ETF?
The BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (A200) is the cheapest with an expense ratio of just 0.04%, making it highly attractive for cost-conscious investors.
Which ASX ETF has the highest assets under management?
The iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (IOZ) is the largest, with over A$14.5 billion in assets under management, making it highly liquid.
What is the difference between ASX 200 and ASX 300 ETFs?
ASX 200 ETFs track the top 200 companies, while ASX 300 ETFs like VAS include an additional 100 mid- and small-cap stocks for broader market exposure.
Is VAS better than ASX 200 ETFs?
VAS can be better for investors seeking broader diversification, as it includes 300 companies instead of 200, though it has a slightly higher fee.
What is IOZ ETF and why is it popular?
IOZ is an iShares ETF tracking the S&P/ASX 200 and is popular due to its large size, strong liquidity, and backing by BlackRock.
What is STW ETF known for?
STW is the oldest ASX 200 ETF and is known for its long track record and reliable tracking of the Australian stock market.
Do ASX 200 ETFs pay dividends?
Yes, these ETFs typically pay dividends, with yields ranging from around 3.7% to 3.8%, reflecting income from Australian companies.
Are ASX ETFs good for long-term investing?
Yes, ASX ETFs are suitable for long-term investors as they provide diversified exposure to Australia’s top companies with relatively low fees.
What sectors dominate ASX 200 ETFs?
The ASX 200 is heavily weighted toward financials (especially banks), mining, energy, and healthcare sectors.
Is performance different between IOZ, STW, and A200?
Performance is nearly identical because all three track the same S&P/ASX 200 Index, with only minor differences due to fees.
What is the yield of ASX 200 ETFs?
ASX 200 ETFs typically offer dividend yields between 3.7% and 3.8%, making them attractive for income-focused investors.
Which ETF is best for beginners in Australia?
A200 and IOZ are both excellent for beginners due to low costs, simplicity, and strong diversification across major Australian companies.
What is the risk level of ASX 200 ETFs?
ASX 200 ETFs carry moderate risk, as they are influenced by stock market fluctuations, economic conditions, and commodity prices.
Why choose A200 over IOZ or STW?
A200 is the best choice for investors prioritizing the lowest possible fees, which can significantly impact long-term returns.
Why choose IOZ over other ASX ETFs?
IOZ is ideal for investors who value liquidity, stability, and scale, as it has the largest assets under management.
Are ASX ETFs liquid?
Yes, all major ASX ETFs like IOZ, STW, A200, and VAS have excellent liquidity, making them easy to buy and sell.
Can international investors invest in ASX ETFs?
Yes, international investors can access ASX ETFs through global brokerage accounts that offer trading on the Australian Securities Exchange.
What is the best strategy for investing in ASX ETFs?
A long-term strategy with regular investments and a focus on low-cost ETFs like A200 or IOZ is considered the most effective approach.