Three ETFs offer key diversification beyond typical 401(k) U.S. large-cap funds for taxable accounts.

Many 401(k) plans focus heavily on U.S. large-cap stocks, leaving gaps in international exposure, small-cap value, and dividend income. Three ETFs—Vanguard Total International Stock (VXUS), Avantis U.S. Small Cap Value (AVUV), and Schwab International Dividend Equity (SCHY)—can fill these gaps in a taxable brokerage account. VXUS provides broad international stock exposure, AVUV targets small-cap value stocks often missing in 401(k)s, and SCHY offers quality dividend-paying international stocks. While each carries risks like market volatility and foreign tax considerations, these ETFs help diversify and enhance growth and income potential beyond typical retirement plans.