[Retric]

Dividends are also taxed, so even reinvesting has a cost.

Granted, IRA/401k etc exist and in years with 0-3% it's not that big a deal, but over 20 years it's often a significant cost.

[runako]

Dividends are not taxed in tax-deferred accounts like IRA/401(k).

[Retric]

Yes, that's why I mentioned them. Sorry, if I was not clear, though they also generally have associated fees. So again, nominal breakeven is not the same as actual breakeven.

[jpmattia]

> Dividends are not taxed in tax-deferred accounts like IRA/401(k)

Only if you never withdraw them.