VCSH invests in short-term U.S. corporate bonds, with shorter maturities than VCIT (intermediate corporates), giving it lower interest-rate sensitivity. Its 4.47% yield is solid.

Its 1-year return of -2.1% has been a modest loss, similar to BSV's -2.2% (short-term Treasuries). It suits investors who accept a bit of credit risk in exchange for the low price volatility typical of short-duration bonds.