How to Invest into VWRL (Complete Guide)
If you’re looking for a simple, globally diversified investment that you can buy in one click, the Vanguard FTSE All-World ETF (VWRL) is one of the most popular choices for UK investors.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know:
What VWRL is and how it works
What’s inside the fund (regions, sectors, and top holdings)
Its performance, costs, and dividend yield
The difference between VWRL and VWRP
Where you can buy it in the UK
Whether it’s a good choice for beginners
What Is VWRL?
The Vanguard FTSE All-World ETF (ticker: VWRL) tracks the FTSE All-World Index, which includes large and mid-cap companies from both developed and emerging markets.
In simple terms:
VWRL gives you exposure to 3,600+ companies worldwide.
Instead of buying individual stocks, you get instant diversification in a single investment.
It’s like owning a slice of the entire global stock market.
Why Not Just Buy the S&P 500?
Many UK investors choose the S&P 500 (e.g., Vanguard’s VUSA ETF) which only covers U.S. companies. While the S&P 500 has performed strongly in the past, it’s limited to just one country.
VWRL, on the other hand:
Covers 66% U.S. companies, but also
14.5% Europe, 9.9% Emerging Markets, 9.3% Pacific, and 0.2% Middle East.
This means you’re not overexposed to one country’s economy.
What’s Inside VWRL?
Regional Breakdown
USA: 66%
Europe: 14.5%
Emerging Markets: 9.9%
Pacific: 9.3%
Middle East: 0.2%
Sector Breakdown
Technology: 30%
Financial Services: 16%
Consumer Discretionary: 13%
Industrials: 13%
Healthcare: 8%
Top Holdings (examples)
Apple
Microsoft
Amazon
Nvidia
Alphabet (Google)
Each company makes up a smaller percentage than in single-country ETFs, because VWRL spreads its risk across thousands of stocks.
Key Facts About VWRL
Current share price: ~£115.92 (per unit)
Ongoing charge (OCF): 0.22% per year
Dividend yield: ~1.49%
Dividend frequency: Quarterly
Number of holdings: 3,624+
VWRL vs. VWRP – What’s the Difference?
Vanguard offers two versions of this ETF:
VWRL (Distributing): Pays out dividends in cash every quarter. You can choose to reinvest them manually or use them as income.
VWRP (Accumulating): Automatically reinvests dividends back into the fund, increasing your investment without you needing to do anything.
The stocks inside both are exactly the same. The only difference is what happens with the dividends.
Past Performance of VWRL
While past results don’t guarantee future returns, here’s how VWRL has performed:
1-Year Return: +9.88%
5-Year Return: +67.8%
Since Inception (2012): +189.3%
This shows steady long-term growth thanks to broad global diversification.
Where to Buy VWRL in the UK
You can invest in VWRL through:
Vanguard UK (direct)
Hargreaves Lansdown
InvestEngine
Other major UK brokers
The ETF itself is identical no matter where you buy it. What matters most are:
Platform fees (some brokers charge more than others)
User experience (ease of use, app design, customer service)
If possible, always use a Stocks & Shares ISA to hold VWRL. This way, all your dividends and gains are tax-free in the UK.
FAQs About VWRL
Is VWRL a good ETF for beginners?
Yes. VWRL is often recommended for beginners because it provides instant global diversification, low fees, and simplicity. You don’t need to pick individual stocks because you’re essentially buying a slice of the entire world economy.
Is VWRL better than VUSA (S&P 500)?
VWRL = global coverage (USA + Europe + Emerging Markets + Pacific)
VUSA = only the U.S. stock market
If you want broader exposure, VWRL is the better choice. If you want to bet heavily on the U.S., VUSA may be suitable.
Does VWRL pay dividends?
Yes. The distributing version (VWRL) pays quarterly dividends. The accumulating version (VWRP) reinvests them automatically.
Can I hold VWRL in an ISA?
Yes and you should if you’re UK-based. This protects your investments from Capital Gains Tax and Dividend Tax.
What are the risks?
Like any stock market investment, VWRL can go up and down. You’re exposed to global markets, currency movements, and economic cycles. Always remember: your capital is at risk.
Final Thoughts
The Vanguard FTSE All-World ETF (VWRL) is one of the best “one-stop” investment options for UK investors. With:
Global diversification across 3,600+ companies
Low fees (0.22%)
Quarterly dividends
Choice between income (VWRL) or reinvestment (VWRP)
…it’s easy to see why so many people use it as the core of their long-term portfolio.
This is NOT financial advice. This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Investing involves risk, and your capital is at risk. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The information in this blog was accurate at the time of posting.
