XEQT vs VEQT: Which All-in-One ETF Should You Buy in 2026?

If you've spent any time on Canadian investing forums, you've seen this question: XEQT or VEQT? It's the most debated topic in Canadian passive investing. Here's the definitive comparison.

The short answer

It barely matters. Both are excellent. Pick either one and never look back. Seriously. The difference between the two is so small that the time you spend agonizing over the decision costs you more than the wrong choice ever would.

The detailed comparison

XEQT (iShares/BlackRock): 0.20% MER. Holds ~9,300 stocks. Slightly higher US allocation (~47%). Slightly lower international (~28%). Slightly cheaper.

VEQT (Vanguard): 0.24% MER. Holds ~13,500 stocks. Slightly lower US allocation (~43%). Slightly higher international (~32%). More stocks but marginally more expensive.

Does the 0.04% MER difference matter?

On a $100,000 portfolio, the difference is $40 per year. Over 30 years with compounding, it adds up to maybe a few thousand dollars. It's not nothing, but it's also not a reason to lose sleep. XEQT is technically cheaper. VEQT is technically more diversified. Both are winners.

What actually matters

What matters far more than XEQT vs VEQT is: are you investing consistently? Are you investing enough? Are you not panic-selling during downturns? These behavioral factors will determine 95% of your investment outcome. The ETF choice is the remaining 5%.

Our recommendation

If you want the lowest cost: XEQT. If you want maximum diversification: VEQT. If you want to stop overthinking and start investing: literally pick either one right now, set up auto-invest, and go live your life.