IEFA Stock: iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF Profile & Analysis (2026)
A low-cost, comprehensive ETF providing exposure to large-, mid-, and small-cap stocks in developed markets outside of the U.S. and Canada — Updated May 2026 with current AUM, expense ratio, holdings, and performance data.
The iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA) is a cornerstone for investors seeking broad international diversification. By tracking the MSCI EAFE IMI Index, it offers a wider lens than traditional international funds, capturing not just large and mid-sized companies, but small-cap stocks as well. This makes it an essential tool for those looking to offset domestic holdings, such as a portfolio concentrated in the complete list of semiconductor companies listed on U.S. exchanges.
Managed by BlackRock, IEFA is celebrated for its ultra-low expense ratio, making it one of the most efficient ways to access developed markets across Europe, Australasia, and the Far East. Whether you are balancing an aggressive stake in small cap aerospace and defense stocks or looking for steady international growth, IEFA provides exposure to global giants like ASML and AstraZeneca, ensuring your capital is working across diverse geographic and economic cycles.
Key Takeaways — IEFA Stock
IEFA includes over 2,600 holdings, reaching deep into small-cap territory across developed international markets.
With a 0.07% expense ratio, it is significantly cheaper than the average international fund, maximizing long-term returns.
It focuses strictly on established economies, excluding emerging markets and North American companies (U.S. and Canada).
As one of the largest ETFs in the world, it offers massive trading volume and tight spreads for all investor types.
IEFA — Live Price Chart
Real-time chart from TradingView.
IEFA ETF Vitals & Key Statistics
Core data as of May 2026.
| Data Point | Value | Data Point | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Name | iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF | Ticker | IEFA |
| Issuer | BlackRock (iShares) | Asset Class | International Equity |
| Index Tracked | MSCI EAFE IMI Index | Structure | ETF |
| Expense Ratio | 0.07% | AUM | $186B |
| Inception Date | October 18, 2012 | Exchange | AMEX |
| No. of Holdings | 2,650 | Dividend Yield | 2.85% |
| 52-Week High | $98.02 | 52-Week Low | $82.45 |
| Avg Daily Volume | 12.5M Shares | YTD Return | 4.50% |
| 1-Year Return | 8.20% | 5-Year Return | 6.10% |
| Category | Foreign Large Blend | Dividend Frequency | Semi-Annual |
IEFA Top 10 Holdings (May 2026)
Largest positions by weight. Click columns to sort.
| Rank | Ticker | Company Name | Sector | Weight % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ASML | ASML Holding NV | Technology | 2.50% |
| 2 | HSBA | HSBC Holdings | Financials | 1.27% |
| 3 | ROG | Roche Holding AG | Healthcare | 1.23% |
| 4 | AZN | AstraZeneca PLC | Healthcare | 1.30% |
| 5 | NOVN | Novartis AG | Healthcare | 1.21% |
| 6 | SAP | SAP SE | Technology | 0.90% |
| 7 | SHEL | Shell PLC | Energy | 1.11% |
| 8 | TTE | TotalEnergies SE | Energy | 0.75% |
| 9 | 7203 | Toyota Motor Corp | Consumer Disc. | 0.85% |
| 10 | NESN | Nestle SA | Consumer Staples | 1.02% |
IEFA — Pros & Cons
✓ Broad Diversification
Exposure to thousands of stocks reduces single-company risk and provides a smooth ride through global market shifts.
✗ No Canadian Exposure
Unlike some peers, IEFA excludes Canada, which may be a drawback for investors wanting a total world ex-US solution.
✓ Efficiency
The IMI (Investable Market Index) structure ensures you aren’t missing the growth potential of small international firms.
✗ Currency Risk
Since it is unhedged, a strengthening U.S. dollar can eat into gains made by the underlying foreign stocks.
✓ Institutional Trust
Massive AUM and BlackRock’s management provide security and extreme liquidity for entries and exits.
✗ Excludes Emerging Markets
Investors will need a separate fund for exposure to high-growth regions like China, India, or Brazil.
Who Should Consider IEFA?
Long-term investors who want a set and forget international core holding with the lowest possible management fees.
Investors seeking exposure to emerging markets or those who want currency-hedged investments to protect against dollar strength.
You are already heavy in U.S. equities and need a simple way to access the list of publicly traded crude oil tanker companies and other global industrial sectors.
Suitable for both taxable brokerage accounts and IRAs, though foreign tax credits may favor taxable accounts.
IEFA vs Similar ETFs
Key metrics comparison.
| ETF | Full Name | Expense Ratio | AUM | Holdings | Div Yield | YTD | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IEFA ★ | iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF | 0.07% | $186B | 2,650 | 2.85% | 4.50% | Broad Core Developed |
| VEA | Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets | 0.05% | $130B | ~3,800 | 3.10% | 4.20% | Total Developed |
| SCHF | Schwab International Equity ETF | 0.06% | $38B | ~1,500 | 2.90% | 4.00% | Large/Mid Focus |
| SPDW | SPDR Portfolio Developed World | 0.04% | $22B | ~2,400 | 3.00% | 4.30% | Deep Value/Low Cost |
IEFA Technical Analysis
Real-time buy/sell signals.
IEFA — Risks & Considerations
Currency Fluctuation
IEFA is unhedged, meaning your returns are affected by the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and local currencies like the Euro, Yen, and Pound.
Geopolitical Risk
Investing across dozens of countries exposes you to varied regulatory changes, political instability, and economic shifts outside of the United States.
Market Concentration
While diversified by holdings, the fund is heavily weighted toward Europe and Japan. Economic stagnation in these regions can significantly drag down performance.
Economic Sensitivity
Many international firms in the EAFE index are cyclically sensitive, meaning they may underperform during global economic slowdowns.