Ranking Funds by Objective

Chart of the Week for June 14-20, 2002

There are two main ways to categorize mutual funds: by style (the average size and valuation of stocks held) and by objective (the investment goal of the fund). Both approaches have merit, and they often intertwine. Regardless of which one you favor, a proper diversification among different categories of funds provides protection against market fluctuations

Looking at the chart above, it’s clear that no single investment objective consistently beats the others. The top line, which shows the best-performing objective for each year, makes this point. So does the bottom line, which shows the worst-performing objective for the same period. For instance, aggressive growth funds were the top-performing funds in 1992, 1993, 1995, and 1999 but were the worst-performing funds in 1996, 1997, 2000, 2001, and so far in 2002.

The difference in risk among objectives is also illustrated. For example, aggressive growth funds are typically either the strongest or the weakest performers--they’re rarely in the middle. And while less-risky equity income funds lagged during the bull market of the 1990’s, when risk-taking was rewarded, they’re on top in the wake of the technology meltdown, when risk aversion has been rewarded. The year-to-year fluctuations make it practically impossible to predict which category of funds will reward investors with high returns. Investors can diversify among different objectives to protect their assets against market gyrations.

This illustration was compiled by information from outside sources. These companies are not affiliated with ICMA-RC. This information is being provided for educational purposes and is not intended to be construed as or relied upon as investment advice. ICMA-RC does not offer specific tax or legal advice. Individuals are advised to consider any new investment strategies carefully prior to implementing.

Investment information can change rapidly and the changes can be significant particularly in volatile markets. For this reason “as of”’ dates are provided for specific data where applicable. The information should not be considered current after the dates provided.

Please read both the current applicable prospectus and Making Sound Investment Decisions: A Retirement Investment Guide carefully for a complete summary of all fees, expenses, charges, financial highlights, investment objectives, risks and performance information. Investing in mutual funds and other investment vehicles involves risk, including possible loss of the amount invested. Investors should carefully consider the Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses before investing or sending money. The prospectus contains this and other information about the investment company. The Vantagepoint Funds are distributed by ICMA-RC Services LLC, a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of ICMA-RC and member FINRA / SIPC . For a current prospectus, contact ICMA-RC Services, LLC.

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment returns and principal value will fluctuate, so that an investor's shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data illustrated. For performance data current to the most recent month end, contact ICMA-RC Services, LLC by calling 800-669-7400 or by writing to 777 North Capitol Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4240. Para asistencia en Español llame al 800-669-8216. Performance data current to the most recent quarter end is available by visiting www.icmarc.org.