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Financial management

Who owns Vanguard?

Who owns Vanguard? Learn why we're proud to be the only investor-owned investment management company and how we focus on putting investor needs first.
2.5 minute read
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October 12, 2022
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Lots of companies make bold claims to woo customers or market themselves. But at Vanguard, we tell you what we know to be true. When we say, “At  Vanguard, you’re more than just an investor—you’re an owner,” we mean it.


Unlike most other investment management companies, we don't have shareholders or a private ownership group. That keeps us consistently focused on investor needs first. Our only goal is to help you build a life of security and dignity in which you can provide for the people you care about most.

We don't have any other owners out there ... we just have our clients. They own Vanguard.*

—Tim Buckley, Vanguard CEO

See more on the Vanguard difference

A financial partner at your side

Like other Vanguard investors, you trust that making smart decisions with your money today can help you build the future you envision for yourself and your loved ones. With Vanguard, you get a true financial partner in building that future. Your goals, your plans, and your priorities are ours too.

We’re not just a place to park your money in the hopes it will grow. We’re an active partner in helping you set financial goals, understand your investing options, make smart decisions, and maintain the discipline to follow your plan over time—so you can feel confident as you work toward your goals.

When you invest with Vanguard, you have more than 40 years of investing expertise behind you. You’re empowered with direct access to the markets, tools, and advice you need to help you stay on track to a more secure financial future for yourself and the people you love.

What more does ownership in Vanguard mean for you?

Aligned interests: Because our investors are our owners, there are no conflicting loyalties getting in the way of your interests.

Greater conviction: We act with conviction on the investment themes that are important to you, our investor-owners.

Long-term perspective: With no outside shareholders, we can focus on the long term rather than quarterly results.

Low costs: Because we have no other owners to satisfy, we can consistently pass along economies of scale and lower the cost of investing, so you keep more of your returns.

Putting our investor-owners first from the start

John C. Bogle (1929–2019) founded Vanguard in 1975 on a simple but revolutionary idea—that an investment company should manage the funds it offers in the sole interest of its clients. Today, our global scale and leadership role in the industry means you never have to worry about getting the best products at the most competitive price.

We’ve never strayed from the bold vision that launched us and continues to set us apart: our unwavering commitment to putting investors like you first.

That’s why whatever you’re working toward, you can feel confident we’re working right beside you. That’s the Value of Ownership®.

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Who owns Vanguard?
Who owns Vanguard? Learn why we're proud to be the only investor-owned investment management company and how we focus on putting investor needs first.

*Vanguard is owned by its funds, which are owned by Vanguard's fund shareholder clients.


All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.

For more information about Vanguard funds or Vanguard ETFs, obtain a mutual fund or ETF prospectus or, if available, a summary prospectus. Investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information are contained in the  prospectus; read and consider it carefully before investing.