When it comes to investing in index funds, also referred to as mutual fund investments, you can choose to work with a financial advisor or engage in self-directed investing. No matter which option you decide to go with, there are certain index funds that stick out above the rest.
How Index Funds Work
Index funds track different markets in order to try to replicate their performance. When it comes to index funds, Canadian investors can get actively managed funds as well as passively managed funds. They can also be made of different stocks, including small-cap Canadian stocks. Some even reflect future values instead of current values.
Unlike some other types of investments, your initial investment isn’t guaranteed. It’ll constantly change based on the unit value of the index. Often, the fund manager will manage this to avoid reduced returns.
Wealthsimple Index Funds
Because Wealthsimple is an online brokerage, there are a variety of investments that you can invest in. In terms of Index Funds, Wealthsimple offers ETFs or index mutual funds, which are also referred to as exchange-traded funds. With Wealthsimple, you can find a wide range of ETFs to invest in as you choose.
Top Canadian Index Funds With Dividends
When it comes to index funds, there are ones you can get with dividends. Dividends are paid out on a monthly, quarterly or yearly basis, and the amount you get is based on how much you have invested. Here are some of the best index funds in Canada.
Vanguard FTSE Canadian High Dividend Yield Index ETF (TSX:VDY)
In terms of high dividend yield index funds, one of the most popular is the Vanguard FTSE Canadian High Dividend Yield Index. The purpose of this index fund is to track the performance of a broad Canadian equity index that measures investment returns of common stocks of Canadian companies that have high dividend yields. This particular index is market capitalization-weighted and focuses on dividend income.
Like many other ETFs, this index is passively managed. It invests most, if not all of it’s assets into the stocks that make up th index. Here are the specifics of this particular index on the market.
| Price | $49.47 |
| Volume | 69,229 |
| Net Assets | 3.47B |
| PE Ratio | 15.16 |
| Yield | 3.95% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares S&P/TSX Composite High Dividend Index ETF (TSX:XEI)
As you probably may have guessed, this index tracks the iShares S&P/TSX Composite High Dividend Index. In total, it holds 75 different stocks, so it’s a simple way to invest in a lot of stocks all at once. Here are the specs of the index.
| Price | $27.47 |
| Volume | 85,941 |
| Net Assets | 1.73 B |
| PE Ratio | 16.24 |
| Yield | 5.41% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index ETF (TSX:CDZ)
This fund seeks to track the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrat Index. This fund holds high-paying Canadian dividend companies as well as large-cap stocks. As a bonus, it pays out dividends monthly. Other specifics of this stock include:
| Price | $35.68 |
| Volume | 8,142 |
| Net Assets | 918.76M |
| PE Ratio | 15.32 |
| Yield | 3.74% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Best US Index Funds in Canada
If you’re looking to invest in US stocks without actually investing in the US markets, one of the ways you can do this is through US index funds. In terms of US index funds, there are actually quite a few different options to choose from.
iShares Core S&P 500 Index ETF (XUS)
This is just one of the funds that tracks the S&P 500. It’s made up of large-cap stocks that make up about 80% of the US Stocks market cap. It’s very similar to the other S&P stocks, but it has it’s own numbers. Here’s what they look like.
| Price | $51.19 |
| Volume | 64,408 |
| Net Assets | 8.95B |
| PE Ratio | 25.22 |
| Yield | 1.02% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF (VFV)
This is another ETF that tracks the S&P 500. The main difference is that this is a Vanguard stock. It has slightly different diversification than the other S&P stocks. Here’s what this ETF currently looks like.
| Price | $146.72 |
| Volume | 236,336 |
| Net Assets | 22.35B |
| PE Ratio | 25.27 |
| Yield | 0.97% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
BMO S&P 500 Index ETF(ZSP)
In terms of the S&P 500 Index ETFs, this ETF is the most diversified. It has low fees and is best used for long-term investing. Here is what the ETF itself looks like.
| Price | $90.40 |
| Volume | 135,312 |
| Net Assets | – |
| PE Ratio | – |
| Yield | 0.92% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares Core S&P 500 Index ETF CAD-Hedged (XSP)
This ETF is the same as the iShares ETF we discussed above, except it’s Canadian hedged. It’s different because it uses derivatives to offset the fluctuations in the exchange rate. Some choose to invest in this one because it’s less volatile, but it can also increase your cost.
| Price | $59.75 |
| Volume | 150,679 |
| Net Assets | 11.53 B |
| PE Ratio | 25.49 |
| Yield | 1.08% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares Core S&P US Total Market Index ETF (XUU)
While this fund is similar to the ones above, it tracks total markets instead. The fees are low, but they give you access to a diversified portfolio that can earn you substantial long-term growth while still allowing for broad exposure. Here’s what it currently looks like.
| Price | $60.78 |
| Volume | 7,044 |
| Net Assets | – |
| PE Ratio | 25.49 |
| Yield | 1.01% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard US Total Market Index ETF (VUN)
This Vanguard ETF is another ETF that also tracks the total market. This market index offers even broader exposure than the iShares total market fund. It encompasses the entire US investable opportunity set while offering profitable long-term growth. Here’s what it looks like.
| Price | $110.51 |
| Volume | 18,573 |
| Net Assets | 11.49B |
| PE Ratio | 24.51 |
| Yield | 0.92% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Low-Cost Index Funds in Canada
Another thing that investors need to consider is the cost of the index fund. This will determine how much is invested into the index and will impact your total return. The lower the cost, the more funds that you can invest. Let’s take a look at some of the best low-cost index funds in Canada.
Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF (VCN)
The purpose of this index fund is to track a broad Canadian equity index. Unlike many other index funds, this one includes all market capitalizations of publicly traded companies. The index it currently tracks is the FTSE Canada All Cap Domestic Index. This index is passively managed and employs cost-effective strategies.
| Price | $71.48 |
| Volume | 23,526 |
| Net Assets | 15.29B |
| PE Ratio | 20.27 |
| Yield | 2.06% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares Core S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF (XIC)
Like many other index funds, this one seeks long-term capital growth. It does so by tracking the performance of the S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index’s net of expenses. This is specifically designed for those who are seeking to grow their wealth over time. It’s also a great way for you to own the entire stock market with just one index.
| Price | $56.14 |
| Volume | 51,932 |
| Net Assets | 28.82B |
| PE Ratio | 20.09 |
| Yield | 2.08% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
BMO S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF (ZCN)
This portfolio is designed to track the S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index’s net of expenses. It invests in and holds the securities in the same proportions as the index. It includes over 200 top stocks (all Canadian), and it represents around 95% of the Canadian equity market. A nice feature of this index is that it mostly holds the most liquid and traded Canadian equities.
| Price | $47.10 |
| Volume | 8,651 |
| Net Assets | 15.94B |
| PE Ratio | – |
| Yield | 2.08% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShare S&P/TSX 60 ETF (XIU)
One neat fact about the iShares S&P/TSX 60 ETF is that it was the world’s first ETF. It was created in 1990. It’s also one of the largest and most liquid ETFs in Canada. Specifically, this ETF gives you exposure to large, established companies in Canada by tracking the S&P/TSX 60 index, net of expenses.
| Price | $51.58 |
| Volume | 751,547 |
| Net Assets | 21.96B |
| PE Ratio | 19.81 |
| Yield | 2.25% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Horizons S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF (HXT)
With this ETF, you get exposure to only 60 of the most liquid Canadian companies. These are also among the largest Canadian companies. Unlike some other ETFs, this one doesn’t focus on just one sector; it covers all sectors, including financials, energy, and industrials. Those who invest in this index need to be aware that there aren’t regular distributions with this ETF. It’s also very volatile and meant for long-term investing.
| Price | $92.22 |
| Volume | 77,436 |
| Net Assets | 5.02B |
| PE Ratio | 24.12 |
| Yield | 0.00% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.07% |
iShares S&P/TSX Completion Index ETF (XMD)
This index is also ideal for those who are seeking long-term growth. It does this by tracking the net expenses of the S&P/TSX Completion Index. What’s interesting about this index is that it consists only of small- and medium-cap Canadian equities. Most investors use this type of index to diversify a mostly large-cap portfolio.
| Price | $60.22 |
| Volume | 15,211 |
| Net Assets | 739.06M |
| PE Ratio | 20.81 |
| Yield | 0.85% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap ex-Financials Index ETF (VXC)
This index is slightly different than the others we have discussed. It focuses on large-, mid-, and small-cap companies outside Canada that operate in both developed and emerging markets. The purpose of the index is to track the FTSE Canada All Cap ex China A Inclusion index. For investors, it’s a passively managed index that uses cost-effective management techniques.
| Price | $83.42 |
| Volume | 7,627 |
| Net Assets | 3.23B |
| PE Ratio | 23.69 |
| Yield | 1.31% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares S&P/TSX Capped Financials Index ETF (XFN)
This index fund offers exposure to Canadian financial companies by replicating the performance of the S&P/TSX Capped Financial Index’s net expenses. What’s interesting is that this index is used to express a sector view.
| Price | $87.92 |
| Volume | 29,138 |
| Net Assets | 2.14B |
| PE Ratio | 17.09 |
| Yield | 2.25% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard Index Funds
When it comes to investing in Canada, Vanguard and iShares dominate the best index fund market. As you can see, we’ve already gone over some of their best index fund options. Here are some others.
Vanguard FTSE Canada ETF (VCE)
Another passively managed fund from Vanguard is the FTSE Canada ETF. It tracks the performance of a broad Canadian equity index. This index measures the investment return on the Canadian market. However, it only measures publicly traded securities. It’s also known for primarily investing in the largest Canadian stocks.
| Price | $75.19 |
| Volume | 5,919 |
| Net Assets | 3.38B |
| PE Ratio | 20.31 |
| Yield | 2.22% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard Growth ETF Portfolio (VGRO)
Another affordable ETF from Vanguard is their Growth ETF Portfolio. Like many of the other index funds that we’ve discussed, it seeks to provide long-term capital growth. It does this by investing in both equity and fixed-income securities. While this index can be rebalanced, it aims to maintain a 80% equity and 20% fixed-income allocation.
| Price | $47.26 |
| Volume | 54,663 |
| Net Assets | 9.6B |
| PE Ratio | 22.20 |
| Yield | 1.79% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard Balanced ETF Portfolio (VBAL)
This is another Vanguard index fund that is designed for long-term growth. It’s also designed for a moderate level of income, which it achieves by investing in both equity and fixed-income securities. The asset allocation for this portfolio is normally 60% equity and 40% fixed-income securities; however, this can change.
| Price | $39.64 |
| Volume | 44,530 |
| Net Assets | 5.16B |
| PE Ratio | 21.96 |
| Yield | 2.13% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard Conservative ETF Portfolio (VCNS)
While this is another Vanguard portfolio that invests in equity and fixed-income securities, it is designed to provide income as well as long-term growth. As a result, the ideal asset allocation is 40% equity and 60% fixed income. The advisor can rebalance the portfolio as needed.
| Price | $33.02 |
| Volume | 11,101 |
| Net Assets | 848.68M |
| PE Ratio | 21.72 |
| Yield | 2.49% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Vanguard Conservative Income ETF Portfolio (VCIP)
The Vanguard Conservative Income ETF is another ETF that focuses on both long-term growth and income. It does this by investing in equity and fixed-income securities. Like a few of the others we’ve already mentioned, this is an actively managed portfolio. The sub-advisor who manages this portfolio aims to maintain a strategic portfolio balance of 20% in equity and 80% in fixed-income securities. However, this balance may need to be adjusted at the sub-manager’s discretion.
| Price | $27.56 |
| Volume | 245 |
| Net Assets | 252.63M |
| PE Ratio | 21.47 |
| Yield | 2.92% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Questrade Index Funds
Because Questrade is just a brokerage, you have a ton of options to choose from. This includes the different index fund options that we’ve already mentioned. The only difference with using Questrade is the fees it charges.
TSX Index Funds
When it comes to index funds, there’s a wide variety to choose from. There are more than you may think available on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Having so many options to choose from can make it very difficult to choose the best option or options for you. To help you with this, we compiled a list of the best TSX index funds. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that there are so many that could make this list, but we had to narrow it down.
iShares MSCI Minimum Volatility Canada ETF (XMV)
This index fund works differently from many of the others that we’ve already discussed. It tracks the net expenses of the MSCI Canadian Minimum Volatility Index. The reason investors use this portfolio is that it can reduce losses during declining markets while still generating gains during rising markets. As a result, it may not deliver long-term growth, but it can help balance your portfolio and reduce your overall losses.
| Price | $58.95 |
| Volume | 278 |
| Net Assets | 403.34M |
| PE Ratio | 19.05 |
| Yield | 2.14% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Global Aggregate Bond Index (VGAB)
One thing to note about this index is that it’s Canadian-hedged. It seeks to replicate a broad global bond index. Like many of the other indexes we discussed, it seeks to be passively managed. The sub-advisor aligns its investments with the index it seeks to track. It also uses derivative instruments to seek to hedge foreign currency exposure.
| Price | $20.44 |
| Volume | 776 |
| Net Assets | 570.62M |
| PE Ratio | – |
| Yield | 3.54% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
iShares Core MSCI All Country World ex Canada Index ETF (XAW)
This is another index fund that seeks to track long-term growth. However, it’s also a great way to add some global diversification to your portfolio. Many investors choose this because it’s an easy way to invest in the US, international, and even emerging markets. It’s also low-cost, so it doesn’t require a lot of funds to begin your investment journey.
| Price | $58.06 |
| Volume | 16,423 |
| Net Assets | – |
| PE Ratio | 23.88 |
| Yield | 1.25% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap Index ETF (VEE)
The point of this index fund is to track the performance of a broad emerging markets index. It currently seeks to track the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A inclusion index. Some neat features of this index are that it primarily invests in the US-domiciled Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF and uses a passive management strategy. This fund also has low expenses, which helps minimize any tracking errors.
| Price | $50.11 |
| Volume | 13,026 |
| Net Assets | 4B |
| PE Ratio | 16.80 |
| Yield | 2.01% |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
TD International Index Fund – e (TDB911)
This index fund is purchased through TD Bank in Canada. It’s identified as having a medium risk and tracks an international equity market index. Specifically, one that measures returns for both mid- and large-cap issuers in the Far East, Asia, and Europe.
This option is a great choice for those with an active investment style who want low MERs. It’s also a great choice for those looking for an index that provides exposure to overseas companies, especially large ones included in the MSCI EAFE Index.
| Price | $23.05 |
| Volume | — |
| Net Asset Value | 1841.74M |
| PE Ratio | — |
| Yield | — |
| Expense Ratio | 0.00% |
Canadian Equivalent of VTSAX
While the VTSAX is a US index fund, there is a Canadian equivalent. This is a fund we’ve already discussed: the Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF (VFV). This way, they can invest in the US fund without having to invest in the US market.
The Big 3 Index Funds
When it comes to index funds, 3 companies control them. These are known as the big three: Vanguard, Big Rock, and State Street. Here’s some information about them.
Vanguard
Vanguard is considered to be one of the world’s largest asset managers. They have over 50 million clients, 17 global offices and $8.6 Trillion in Assets Under Management. Unlike some other asset managers, Vanguard is independent from their external owners. This means they focus on their clients and keep costs low.
Just like with other asset management firms, their investment costs include commissions, management fees and expenses. They’re also clear that their investments aren’t guaranteed, and all investments come with a risk. That said, there is always someone there to help you. This is because their goal is to provide their clients and investors with long-term success.
Black Rock
BlackRock Asset Management Canada promotes itself not just as an investment manager for the wealthy, but for everyone. They’re also considered one of the world’s leading providers of investment, advisory, and risk management solutions. Currently, they’ve been serving Canadian investors for over 30 years and have over 180 pension plans using their services. That’s over $18 M in retirement savings. They also manage over $335 B for Canadians.
Essentially, BlackRock manages client money and provides investment solutions for both professional and long-term investors. Their goal is to provide their investors with long-term wealth so they can reach their financial goals. You may not know this, but iShares ETFs are BlackRock.
State Street
State Street is another one of the big 3 asset managers. They’re considered a global leader in financing, investment management, markets, and investment servicing. They actually handle 11.5% of the world’s finances every day.
In terms of experience, State Street has over 232 years. They’re also the first back-to-front investment platform, the 4th-largest asset manager in the world, do business across over 100 markets, and have over 53,000 employees worldwide.
S&P 500 Index Funds in Canada
When it comes to index funds that track the S&P 500, there’s more than you may think. Here’s a list of a few of them, including the ones we’ve already discussed.
| S&P 500 Index Funds in Canada | Management Expense Ratio | Price |
| iShares Core S&P 500 Index ETF CAD-Hedged (XSP) | 0.09% | $76.32 |
| BMO S&P 500 Index ETF(ZSP) | 0.09% | $115.12 |
| Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF (VFV) | 0.09% | $186.28 |
| iShares Core S&P 500 Index ETF (XUS) | 0.09% | $65.00 |
| Horizons S&P 500 Index ETF (HSX) | 0.10% | $108.61 |
| TD S&P 500 Index ETF (TPU-T) | 0.07% | $59.96 |
Index Funds and Income Taxes
If you own Canadian mutual funds, you may be wondering how you pay taxes on these amounts. Well, income taxes payable are based on the income you receive from the mutual fund, not on the fund’s value. What these are depends on the type of income you receive, but they can be capital gains, capital gains dividends, dividends, foreign income, interest, return of capital or other income. You will receive a slip too; you can claim these amounts on your taxes.
Protecting The Funds You Invest
While you can’t guarantee you aren’t going to lose your money in the event of a bank failure, you can protect your funds. In Canada, this is the CDIC, which is not only a government deposit insurer but, since there’s no other government deposit insurer, the only deposit insurer. It will protect up to $100,000 in your account.
Best New Canadian Index Funds Launched in 2026
In Canada, a few new index funds have been launched. Here’s a look at them and how they work.
NBI Canadian Equity Index Fund (TSX: NBC): This fund has a price around $10.25, an MER 0f 0.05% and administration fees of 0.00%.
NBI Canadian Bond Index Fund (TSX: NBBX): This fund has a price around $10.09, an MER 0f 0.03% and administration fees of 0.00%.
NBI U.S. Equity Index Fund (TSX: NBUX): This fund has a price around $10.22, an MER 0f 0.05% and administration fees of 0.00%.
Have Index Fund MERs Decreased in 2026?
Yes, in fact, many MERs have decreased in 2026 due to industry competition, the economy and investor capital being transferred to passive funds. In fact, many of these MERs are trending towards historic lows.
Are Index Funds Still Beating Active Funds in 2026?
Whether you buy index funds or actively managed mutual funds depends on your investment needs. That said, index investing is considered to be better for the vast majority. In fact, over 93% of Canadian active equity funds underperform their benchmarks over the long-term. .
How FHSA-Eligible Index Funds Compare in 2026
Whether you’re looking to build your investment portfolio with major Canadian banks or self-directed brokerages, there are things you need to consider, like:
- market volatility
- socially responsible investing
- instant diversification
- personal risk tolerance
- investing in non-registered accounts and registered accounts
- broad diversification
- Investment types
- Different asset classes
When it comes to ETFs, you need to consider:
- What the top Canadian ETFs are
- The best performing ETFs
- Asset allocation ETFs
- Dividend stocks
- ETF fees
- Real Estate Investment Trusts
- All-in-one ETFs
When it comes to FHSA-eligible index funds, there are several factors to consider. However, for young investors, asset allocation ETFs are the most recommended. This should also be only part of your portfolio, not your entire portfolio.
Best Low-Cost Index Funds for New Investors in 2026
Whether you’re investing with an online broker or a major bank like the Toronto Dominion Bank, you need to consider all of the factors, including:
- The cost of the Canadian dollar
- How the ETFs trade
- Your monthly income
- How to get more diversification
- What a good price is for an ETF
Keeping these things in mind, there are some of the best index funds for new investors.
- iShares Core Equity ETF Portfolio (XEQT)
- Vanguard FTSE All-Cap All-In-One (VEQT)
- iShares Core Growth ETF Portfolio (XGRO)
- Vanguard Growth ETF Portfolio (VGRO)
- iShares Core Balanced ETF Portfolio (XBAL)
- Vanguard Balanced ETF Portfolio (VBAL)
Index Fund Performance Year Over Year in Canada
Over the last year, Canadian equity index funds have delivered returns of 32% to 38%. This is because the Canadian market is dominated by a few core benchmarks, including:
- S&P/TSX Index
- S7P/TSX Capped Composite Index
- S&P 500 Index (CAD hedged and unhedged)
Should You Switch Banks for Cheaper Index Funds?
Whether you’re looking to start investing or just looking for a more attractive option, switching from a bank to a discount brokerage isn’t a bad idea. This is because big banks typically charge high APRs, and discount brokerages have much lower fees. This can actually increase your returns.
Are Currency-Hedged Index Funds Worth It in 2026?
If you’re a long-term equity investor, then currency-hedged index funds might not be the best option for you. This is because they only protect against short-term currency volatility, which can lead to issues such as currency drag, loss of diversification, and long-term unpredictability.
Best Index Funds for Dollar-Cost Averaging Right Now
When it comes to dollar-cost averaging, some index funds are considered better than others. Some of these are:
Vanguard All-Equity ETF Portfolio (XEQT/VEQT), if you’re going to invest in the security. No matter what you decide, though, you can always move your investments around or get a second opinion.
- Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF (VFV)
- iShared Core S&P US Total Market Index ETF (XUU)
- Vanguard FTSE Canada All Cap Index ETF (VCN)
