Best Historical Returns: Mutual Fund Examples

Explore examples of mutual funds with the best historical returns for informed investment decisions.
By Jamie

Understanding Mutual Funds with the Best Historical Returns

Investing in mutual funds can be an effective way to grow your wealth over time. These funds pool money from many investors to purchase a diverse portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities. Among the various types of mutual funds, those with strong historical returns stand out, making them appealing options for both novice and seasoned investors. In this article, we will explore three diverse examples of mutual funds that have demonstrated notable historical performance.

1. Vanguard 500 Index Fund (VFIAX)

The Vanguard 500 Index Fund is designed to track the performance of the S&P 500, which represents 500 of the largest U.S. companies. This fund is an excellent example for investors seeking exposure to large-cap U.S. equities with a passive investment strategy.

The VFIAX has delivered an average annual return of around 12% over the past decade, significantly outperforming many actively managed funds. Its low expense ratio of 0.04% makes it an attractive option for cost-conscious investors.

For those looking for a long-term investment, VFIAX serves as a solid choice due to its consistent performance and broad market exposure. It’s particularly suitable for retirement accounts or individual portfolios aiming for growth through a passive approach.

Relevant Notes:

  • The fund has historically shown resilience during market downturns, making it a reliable option.
  • Investors should be aware that past performance does not guarantee future results.

2. Fidelity Contrafund (FCNTX)

The Fidelity Contrafund is an actively managed mutual fund that focuses on growth stocks, especially those that are undervalued. This fund is suitable for investors who are willing to take on a bit more risk for the potential of higher returns.

With an average annual return of approximately 13% over the last decade, FCNTX has consistently outperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500. The fund invests in companies with strong fundamentals and significant growth potential, making it well-suited for aggressive growth investors.

Investors may find this fund appealing due to its track record of identifying high-potential stocks, even in volatile markets. It’s ideal for those looking for a blend of growth and value in their portfolios.

Relevant Notes:

  • The expense ratio for FCNTX is around 0.85%, which is higher than index funds but justified by its active management strategy.
  • Investors should consider market conditions and their risk tolerance before investing.

3. T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth Fund (TRBCX)

The T. Rowe Price Blue Chip Growth Fund focuses on large, established companies with strong growth prospects. It aims to deliver long-term capital appreciation and is an excellent choice for investors seeking exposure to high-quality growth stocks.

TRBCX has achieved an impressive average annual return of about 14% over the past ten years. Its portfolio typically includes companies in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, which are expected to grow faster than the overall market.

This fund is particularly suitable for investors looking for a growth-oriented strategy while still maintaining a diversified portfolio. It appeals to those who believe in the long-term potential of blue-chip companies to drive growth.

Relevant Notes:

  • The expense ratio for TRBCX is around 0.70%, which is reasonable given its performance history.
  • Investors should assess their investment goals and risk tolerance before committing to the fund.

In conclusion, these examples of mutual funds with the best historical returns highlight the potential of both passive and active investment strategies. By considering factors such as expense ratios, performance history, and investment objectives, investors can make informed decisions to enhance their portfolios.