Top Foreign Developed ETFs: VEA, IDEV, SCHF — Global Exposure, Long-Term Strength

When building a well-rounded, resilient portfolio, international developed markets often don’t get the attention they deserve. While U.S. stocks dominate headlines, companies abroad — particularly in developed regions like Europe, Japan, and Australia — offer meaningful diversification, global growth, and long-term opportunity.

To gain broad, cost-effective access to these markets, I lean on ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) that deliver global exposure without the hassle of picking individual stocks or currencies. My go-to international developed ETFs are VEA (Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF), IDEV (iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF), and SCHF (Schwab International Equity ETF). Here's why they have a place in my global investment strategy.

🌍 1. VEA – Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF

Why I Like It:

VEA is a powerhouse when it comes to international exposure. It holds companies across Europe, the Pacific, and Canada — excluding the U.S. and emerging markets — giving you a pure play on developed economies. With Vanguard’s reputation for low fees and tight tracking, it’s one of the most widely held ETFs in this category.

Key Features:

• Expense Ratio: Just 0.05%

• Holdings: Over 3,800 stocks from developed markets

• Strategy: Tracks the FTSE Developed All Cap ex US Index

  
  

My Take:

VEA is a solid cornerstone for any globally diversified portfolio. It’s broad, efficient, and designed to provide exposure to stable, mature economies — a great long-term complement to U.S.-heavy allocations.

🌐 2. IDEV – iShares Core MSCI International Developed Markets ETF

Why I Like It:

IDEV offers similar exposure to VEA but uses the MSCI World ex USA Index, which has a slightly different approach to country and sector weightings. It’s part of the iShares Core lineup, meaning it’s built for long-term investors who value simplicity, low fees, and transparency.

Key Features:

• Expense Ratio: Just 0.05%

• Holdings: Around 1,600 developed-market stocks

• Strategy: Tracks the MSCI World ex USA Index

  
  

My Take:

IDEV is a well-rounded alternative to VEA, with a focus on quality international names. It’s especially appealing if you already use iShares ETFs in your portfolio and want consistent indexing methodology across your holdings.

🌏 3. SCHF – Schwab International Equity ETF

Why I Like It:

SCHF stands out for its ultra-low cost and broad diversification. Like VEA and IDEV, it provides exposure to international developed markets — and it does so with Schwab’s commitment to investor-friendly pricing and efficiency. It’s an excellent choice for hands-off investors who want maximum reach with minimum friction.

Key Features:

• Expense Ratio: A rock-bottom 0.06%

• Holdings: Over 1,500 developed-market stocks

• Strategy: Tracks the FTSE Developed ex US Index

  
  

My Take:

SCHF is a quiet contender in the international ETF space. It offers broad, low-cost coverage and is ideal for long-term investors who want international diversification with one simple fund.

🧭 Final Thoughts: Best Foreign Developed ETFs — Global

Diversification Made Easy

VEA, IDEV, and SCHF each bring something slightly different to the table, but all serve the same purpose: helping investors capture the performance of established companies outside the U.S. in an efficient, low-cost way.

Adding international developed markets to your portfolio can help reduce home-country bias, smooth out volatility, and participate in growth from industries and regions the U.S. doesn’t dominate. These ETFs are designed to be long-term building blocks — helping you stay globally diversified and prepared for whatever the markets bring.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Markets change, and what works today may not be suitable tomorrow. Do your due diligence and invest wisely.