Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

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RoboFan
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by RoboFan »

Is there anyway we (bogleheads) as a group can harness all the negative comments that have been made here, and on the Apple store (or Android equivalent), to make a cohesive argument as to how the current update has failed to deliver?

For example, we could run summary statistics on the number of stars given on App stores since the release of the last major revision (v13?), add in a sampling of the number of negative posting on this site, and write a letter to the company that could posted in a new thread here. A consumer revolt so to speak.

To anyones knowledge, has anyone at Vanguard ever posted or acknowledged the existence of the bogleheads site?
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

As a group, the Bogleheads forum does not support any cause - regardless of merit. Otherwise, it will introduce a perceived bias that the cause represents a consensus of the membership (and site owners). This is certainly not the case. It also allows us to be independent of commercial influence.

For example, I have no qualms about recommending investors go to Fidelity (or Schwab) for a 3-fund portfolio.

The best I can suggest is to hammer the app websites (Apple store, Google Play store) with your opinions.

As for Vanguard's acknowledgement of this site, we were certainly recognized when Jack Bogle was alive. The Bogleheads® Conferences held in Philadelphia always had a trip to Vanguard's main campus.

Jack Bogle was a forum member and was welcome to post here at any time. A list of his posts is here.

The forum did have one Vanguard employee who made occasional posts to address certain issues - and only with special permission. The last post was in 2018 and won't be repeated.
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retiringwhen
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by retiringwhen »

RoboFan wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 8:50 am Is there anyway we (bogleheads) as a group can harness all the negative comments that have been made here, and on the Apple store (or Android equivalent), to make a cohesive argument as to how the current update has failed to deliver?

For example, we could run summary statistics on the number of stars given on App stores since the release of the last major revision (v13?), add in a sampling of the number of negative posting on this site, and write a letter to the company that could posted in a new thread here. A consumer revolt so to speak.

To anyones knowledge, has anyone at Vanguard ever posted or acknowledged the existence of the bogleheads site?
I am not sure it is necessary.

We still have relationship specialist who we have worked with for a number of years (a few times a year). My last interaction about 3 mos. ago was a response to one of the survey's Vanguard puts out. My discussion with him told me that they are well aware of the issues.

Based on that conversation, I have a non-sinister take on what is going on (the discussion was prompted by the failed new accounts problem in AUG/SEP).

Bottom line, they are overwhelmed with a combination of three trends that are absolutely burying the company.

1.) Fund inflows and new customers have been running well ahead of their ability to service them for at least 5 years. The pandemic only hastened that trend to essentially the breaking point due to remote work and the inability to hire sufficient new staff. This was implicitly acknowledge in our conversation.

2.) Vanguard has been in the throes of a major IT transformation that is not going well (my read). Their systems are antiquated and there has been major background efforts to improve the systems. Alot of that has been operations and CSR facing not customer facing. It sounded to me like it has caused significant churn/pain and operation impacts in the last year. Hopefully they can get it stabilized (he was pretty clear about the transformation, but less about it's success)

2.) Lastly, my observation: Vanguard unequivocally won the low cost war and they are left with the boobie prize of way too little resources to actually achieve the improvements necessary. I think that is underlying the reasons items 1 and 2 are not going well.


The app is symptom of all three issues. Complaining may feel good, But I am sure they are aware.

#3 is clearly underlying Vanguard's recent pushes into active funds and "enhance" advisory services. So if you want to see Vanguard get better, sign of PAS and ask for that active Secret Sauce. :annoyed :twisted:
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Stinky »

retiringwhen wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 9:45 am We still have relationship specialist who we have worked with for a number of years (a few times a year). My last interaction about 3 mos. ago was a response to one of the survey's Vanguard puts out. My discussion with him told me that they are well aware of the issues.

Based on that conversation, I have a non-sinister take on what is going on (the discussion was prompted by the failed new accounts problem in AUG/SEP).

Bottom line, they are overwhelmed with a combination of three trends that are absolutely burying the company.

1.) Fund inflows and new customers have been running well ahead of their ability to service them for at least 5 years. The pandemic only hastened that trend to essentially the breaking point due to remote work and the inability to hire sufficient new staff. This was implicitly acknowledge in our conversation.

2.) Vanguard has been in the throes of a major IT transformation that is not going well (my read). Their systems are antiquated and there has been major background efforts to improve the systems. Alot of that has been operations and CSR facing not customer facing. It sounded to me like it has caused significant churn/pain and operation impacts in the last year. Hopefully they can get it stabilized (he was pretty clear about the transformation, but less about it's success)

3. ) Lastly, my observation: Vanguard unequivocally won the low cost war and they are left with the boobie prize of way too little resources to actually achieve the improvements necessary. I think that is underlying the reasons items 1 and 2 are not going well.

The app is symptom of all three issues. Complaining may feel good, But I am sure they are aware.

#3 is clearly underlying Vanguard's recent pushes into active funds and "enhance" advisory services. So if you want to see Vanguard get better, sign of PAS and ask for that active Secret Sauce. :annoyed :twisted:
Thank you for an absolutely excellent comment on Vanguard's current woes and service issues

I’ve seen business environments that are struggling with antiquated computer systems. Attempts to upgrade systems to more modern platforms sometimes make things worse before they eventually get better.

When you add in the massive inflow of funds at Vanguard, and then throw the work-from-home complications from COVID, it’s perfectly understandable why there are computer and service issues.

Thanks again for posting.
Retired life insurance company financial executive who sincerely believes that ”It’s a GREAT day to be alive!”
retiringwhen
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by retiringwhen »

Stinky wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 11:13 am I’ve seen business environments that are struggling with antiquated computer systems. Attempts to upgrade systems to more modern platforms sometimes make things worse before they eventually get better.
I was long in the business of inflicting those new system upgrades and transformations on bleeding organizations. Never once was it pretty.

One time, we were run out of an entire country. :wink:
exodusNH
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by exodusNH »

retiringwhen wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 9:45 am
RoboFan wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 8:50 am Is there anyway we (bogleheads) as a group can harness all the negative comments that have been made here, and on the Apple store (or Android equivalent), to make a cohesive argument as to how the current update has failed to deliver?

For example, we could run summary statistics on the number of stars given on App stores since the release of the last major revision (v13?), add in a sampling of the number of negative posting on this site, and write a letter to the company that could posted in a new thread here. A consumer revolt so to speak.

To anyones knowledge, has anyone at Vanguard ever posted or acknowledged the existence of the bogleheads site?
I am not sure it is necessary.

We still have relationship specialist who we have worked with for a number of years (a few times a year). My last interaction about 3 mos. ago was a response to one of the survey's Vanguard puts out. My discussion with him told me that they are well aware of the issues.

Based on that conversation, I have a non-sinister take on what is going on (the discussion was prompted by the failed new accounts problem in AUG/SEP).

Bottom line, they are overwhelmed with a combination of three trends that are absolutely burying the company.

1.) Fund inflows and new customers have been running well ahead of their ability to service them for at least 5 years. The pandemic only hastened that trend to essentially the breaking point due to remote work and the inability to hire sufficient new staff. This was implicitly acknowledge in our conversation.

2.) Vanguard has been in the throes of a major IT transformation that is not going well (my read). Their systems are antiquated and there has been major background efforts to improve the systems. Alot of that has been operations and CSR facing not customer facing. It sounded to me like it has caused significant churn/pain and operation impacts in the last year. Hopefully they can get it stabilized (he was pretty clear about the transformation, but less about it's success)

2.) Lastly, my observation: Vanguard unequivocally won the low cost war and they are left with the boobie prize of way too little resources to actually achieve the improvements necessary. I think that is underlying the reasons items 1 and 2 are not going well.


The app is symptom of all three issues. Complaining may feel good, But I am sure they are aware.

#3 is clearly underlying Vanguard's recent pushes into active funds and "enhance" advisory services. So if you want to see Vanguard get better, sign of PAS and ask for that active Secret Sauce. :annoyed :twisted:
I agree. My hypothesis is that the old app is

- using infrastructure they want to discontinue
- was written with an older framework that either out of favor or deprecated
- was written by contractors or people no longer with the company

The need to rebuild the app on a modern platform and relearn all the mistakes the original app made.

No software project's is to be an unmaintainable mess. It happens over time as people realize all sorts of one-off situations that weren't a problem for people to deal with, but needs to be specifically programmed.

As a very recent minor example, a project that I worked on is getting complaints about having to file too many antimoney laundering (AML) reports.

It turns out for certain administrative payments, the users routinely use the company's abbreviation as either the payer or payee. Well, the AML requirements did not take this into account. So, there will now have to be a patch to exclude that abbreviation or to somehow otherwise flag that transaction as not partaking in AML checks.

This is also why you NEVER want to get a custom license plate with "TEMP".
invester123
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by invester123 »

Anyone else have trouble logging on with the app - incorrect username/password. Can log on fine with mobile browser.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by anon_investor »

RoboFan wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 8:50 am Is there anyway we (bogleheads) as a group can harness all the negative comments that have been made here, and on the Apple store (or Android equivalent), to make a cohesive argument as to how the current update has failed to deliver?

For example, we could run summary statistics on the number of stars given on App stores since the release of the last major revision (v13?), add in a sampling of the number of negative posting on this site, and write a letter to the company that could posted in a new thread here. A consumer revolt so to speak.

To anyones knowledge, has anyone at Vanguard ever posted or acknowledged the existence of the bogleheads site?
You can submit feedback to Vanguard from within the app.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Tubes »

exodusNH wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 11:39 am I agree. My hypothesis is that the old app is

- using infrastructure they want to discontinue
- was written with an older framework that either out of favor or deprecated
- was written by contractors or people no longer with the company

The need to rebuild the app on a modern platform and relearn all the mistakes the original app made.

No software project's is to be an unmaintainable mess. It happens over time as people realize all sorts of one-off situations that weren't a problem for people to deal with, but needs to be specifically programmed.
That's a reasonable theory.

We saw this happen at my old Megacorp, pretty much as you describe.

Some organizations make the change quickly and transparently to end users. Others don't. My Megacorp struggled for over a decade. I could get into the reasons I think my MC struggled, but it would just become a rant.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by exodusNH »

Tubes wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 5:03 am
exodusNH wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 11:39 am I agree. My hypothesis is that the old app is

- using infrastructure they want to discontinue
- was written with an older framework that either out of favor or deprecated
- was written by contractors or people no longer with the company

The need to rebuild the app on a modern platform and relearn all the mistakes the original app made.

No software project's is to be an unmaintainable mess. It happens over time as people realize all sorts of one-off situations that weren't a problem for people to deal with, but needs to be specifically programmed.
That's a reasonable theory.

We saw this happen at my old Megacorp, pretty much as you describe.

Some organizations make the change quickly and transparently to end users. Others don't. My Megacorp struggled for over a decade. I could get into the reasons I think my MC struggled, but it would just become a rant.
As much as we like to think of ourselves as technologically advanced, the reality is that we've got 35 years of experience trying to automate / modernize human civilization that has spent 10,000 years in an analog phase.

Whenever someone say "AI!!!!!", I roll my eyes. The power of a human brain (any many other animals as well -- we're not as special as we like to think) dwarfs computers.

AI will continue to advance. We'll figure out how to make it actually perform like the brain.

But between now and uncertain timeline, AI will continue to drive cars into fire engines. Or cause stock market flash crashes. Or identify certain humans as our ape relatives.
VT1964
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New vanguard app

Post by VT1964 »

[Thread merged into here --admin LadyGeek]

Have you seen the redesign of vanguards app? It’s horrible!
Freefun
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Re: New vanguard app

Post by Freefun »

Some threads on this already.

viewtopic.php?t=355682
Remember when you wanted what you currently have?
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

I merged VT1964's thread into the ongoing discussion.

(Thanks to the member who reported the post.)
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by davetopia »

invester123 wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 10:59 pm Anyone else have trouble logging on with the app - incorrect username/password. Can log on fine with mobile browser.
I started running into this issue as well. I found the solution is to open a Schwab account.
VT1964
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by VT1964 »

I am literally in tears! Silly it may be, but I really enjoyed the Vanguard app and that was one of the reasons I chose Vanguard.

I have been moving my accounts and money over the years to Vanguard and have been quite disappointed in their abysmal customer service. But I liked the website and app interfaces. Now, the app is unusable, too slick looking and I have had it with Vanguard! My problem is that I am now entrenched with Vanguard because if I move my account to Fidelity or Schwab, I will have mostly Vanguard funds there. I WANT OUT!
Crazy888s
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Crazy888s »

This may be the last straw for me with Vangaurd.

This morning I logged on to the website from mobile and I am now receiving a pop up to join their robo advisor. Additionally, they have added a scrolling feedback tab that will no go away and partially hides balance information.
Da5id
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Da5id »

VT1964 wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 3:54 am I am literally in tears! Silly it may be, but I really enjoyed the Vanguard app and that was one of the reasons I chose Vanguard.

I have been moving my accounts and money over the years to Vanguard and have been quite disappointed in their abysmal customer service. But I liked the website and app interfaces. Now, the app is unusable, too slick looking and I have had it with Vanguard! My problem is that I am now entrenched with Vanguard because if I move my account to Fidelity or Schwab, I will have mostly Vanguard funds there. I WANT OUT!
If your funds are convertible to ETFs you can do that and move anywhere. In non taxable accounts you can liquidate and move. The only real barrier to moving is Vanguard funds in taxable that have big capital gains and that will have transaction costs that bother you at the brokerage your want to move to. Is that your case?
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by smectym »

VT1964 wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 3:54 am I am literally in tears! Silly it may be, but I really enjoyed the Vanguard app and that was one of the reasons I chose Vanguard.

I have been moving my accounts and money over the years to Vanguard and have been quite disappointed in their abysmal customer service. But I liked the website and app interfaces. Now, the app is unusable, too slick looking and I have had it with Vanguard! My problem is that I am now entrenched with Vanguard because if I move my account to Fidelity or Schwab, I will have mostly Vanguard funds there. I WANT OUT!
I had my first encounter with the new app on my iphone yesterday as I had to upload a mobile check. Based on my previous experience and the negative comments here, I was all prepared for a misfire. I was surprised that the check upload went seamlessly, and I see V has at least incorporated autodetect for a properly focussed check at last.
VT1964
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by VT1964 »

Da5id wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 5:56 am
VT1964 wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 3:54 am I am literally in tears! Silly it may be, but I really enjoyed the Vanguard app and that was one of the reasons I chose Vanguard.

I have been moving my accounts and money over the years to Vanguard and have been quite disappointed in their abysmal customer service. But I liked the website and app interfaces. Now, the app is unusable, too slick looking and I have had it with Vanguard! My problem is that I am now entrenched with Vanguard because if I move my account to Fidelity or Schwab, I will have mostly Vanguard funds there. I WANT OUT!
If your funds are convertible to ETFs you can do that and move anywhere. In non taxable accounts you can liquidate and move. The only real barrier to moving is Vanguard funds in taxable that have big capital gains and that will have transaction costs that bother you at the brokerage your want to move to. Is that your case?
Yes, that is precisely the case. The Roth is not a problem. It is the taxable account.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Da5id »

VT1964 wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 6:33 am
Da5id wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 5:56 am
VT1964 wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 3:54 am I am literally in tears! Silly it may be, but I really enjoyed the Vanguard app and that was one of the reasons I chose Vanguard.

I have been moving my accounts and money over the years to Vanguard and have been quite disappointed in their abysmal customer service. But I liked the website and app interfaces. Now, the app is unusable, too slick looking and I have had it with Vanguard! My problem is that I am now entrenched with Vanguard because if I move my account to Fidelity or Schwab, I will have mostly Vanguard funds there. I WANT OUT!
If your funds are convertible to ETFs you can do that and move anywhere. In non taxable accounts you can liquidate and move. The only real barrier to moving is Vanguard funds in taxable that have big capital gains and that will have transaction costs that bother you at the brokerage your want to move to. Is that your case?
Yes, that is precisely the case. The Roth is not a problem. It is the taxable account.
That is unfortunate. You don't have funds that can be converted freely to ETFs like VTI or VXUS? People also say that you can possibly get Schwab to waive fees for Vanguard MF transactions but I have no direct experience with that.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

VT1964 - Hang on, you can convert Vanguard mutual funds to ETFs in a taxable account without concern for capital gains. See: Subject: Consolidate the investments with one Broker
UpperNwGuy wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 7:40 pm
LadyGeek wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:16 pm
UpperNwGuy wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 2:55 pm I have accounts at all three, and I find Fidelity and Schwab to be mostly the same. I would strongly encourage you to convert your Vanguard mutual funds to their counterpart ETFs before moving to either.
I assume it's because Fidelity offers commission-free trades for ETFs, but not mutual funds?

If you have your funds in a tax-deferred account, i.e. an IRA, can you do a simple exchange (sell all mutual fund shares / buy ETF)? There are no tax concerns (capital gains) in an IRA.

In a taxable account, I assume you would have to call them to avoid capital gains.

Vanguard's FAQ explains how to do the conversion: Common ETF questions (Can I convert my conventional Vanguard mutual fund shares to Vanguard ETF Shares?) Note an exclusion for a few bond ETFs. (?)

Reason for the post: I'm moving to Fidelity in 2022. Answers to these questions will also help the OP.
Yes, because Fidelity offers commission-free trades for ETFs, but not mutual funds.

Yes, in a tax-deferred account you can sell your mutual funds and buy ETFs with no tax consequences.

In a taxable account, you need to call Vanguard to convert from mutual funds to ETFs before moving to a new brokerage.

Yes, there are a few bond funds that Vanguard won't convert. Unfortunately they are popular ones such as Total Bond, Intermediate-Term Bond Index, etc.

Good luck with your move. Hope it is not stressful.
The wait time for phone support is a different problem...

Update: Clarified that I'm responding to VT1964.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Da5id »

LadyGeek wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 7:05 am Hang on, you can convert Vanguard mutual funds to ETFs in a taxable account without concern for capital gains. See: Subject: Consolidate the investments with one Broker
UpperNwGuy wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 7:40 pm
LadyGeek wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:16 pm
UpperNwGuy wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 2:55 pm I have accounts at all three, and I find Fidelity and Schwab to be mostly the same. I would strongly encourage you to convert your Vanguard mutual funds to their counterpart ETFs before moving to either.
I assume it's because Fidelity offers commission-free trades for ETFs, but not mutual funds?

If you have your funds in a tax-deferred account, i.e. an IRA, can you do a simple exchange (sell all mutual fund shares / buy ETF)? There are no tax concerns (capital gains) in an IRA.

In a taxable account, I assume you would have to call them to avoid capital gains.

Vanguard's FAQ explains how to do the conversion: Common ETF questions (Can I convert my conventional Vanguard mutual fund shares to Vanguard ETF Shares?) Note an exclusion for a few bond ETFs. (?)

Reason for the post: I'm moving to Fidelity in 2022. Answers to these questions will also help the OP.
Yes, because Fidelity offers commission-free trades for ETFs, but not mutual funds.

Yes, in a tax-deferred account you can sell your mutual funds and buy ETFs with no tax consequences.

In a taxable account, you need to call Vanguard to convert from mutual funds to ETFs before moving to a new brokerage.

Yes, there are a few bond funds that Vanguard won't convert. Unfortunately they are popular ones such as Total Bond, Intermediate-Term Bond Index, etc.

Good luck with your move. Hope it is not stressful.
The wait time for phone support is a different problem...
If this is about my post, I'm aware that most conversions of Vanguard mutual funds to ETFs don't have tax consequences. Perhaps I expressed it unclearly though? I've personally converted most of my mutual funds at Vanguard to ETFs in the past year so I know the ins and outs. Though as the quoted part said, doesn't work for conversions to BND (you need to sell and buy). And in my case I didn't convert VBIRX to BSV in taxable as there would have been capital gains realized.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

Sorry, I was responding to VT1964's request for help. I have updated my post.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by VT1964 »

Good lord....who are these Level 1 reps who answer the phone? They clearly sound like they are minimum wage workers with no education! This gets worse and worse. Called in for 'technical support' and spoke to some girl who hadn't even looked at the new app (?). :oops:
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by BitTooAggressive »

VT1964 wrote: Fri Dec 17, 2021 11:02 am Good lord....who are these Level 1 reps who answer the phone? They clearly sound like they are minimum wage workers with no education! This gets worse and worse. Called in for 'technical support' and spoke to some girl who hadn't even looked at the new app (?). :oops:
It’s really bad. Upper management needs to be replaced.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by PersonalFinanceJam »

I found this article somewhat interesting. The overall take seems to be that Vanguard knows its new mobile app has not been well received, but they keep increasing assets under management regardless of their technology. They are adding a new board member with good tech credentials, but I think it remains to be seen how much she can move the needle with regards to Vanguards technology.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by goodenyou »

This mobile app is God-awful. It is useless. Anyone at Vanguard that is proud of this junk should be fired.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

PersonalFinanceJam wrote: Mon Dec 20, 2021 8:27 am I found this article somewhat interesting. The overall take seems to be that Vanguard knows its new mobile app has not been well received, but they keep increasing assets under management regardless of their technology. They are adding a new board member with good tech credentials, but I think it remains to be seen how much she can move the needle with regards to Vanguards technology.
Thanks! Here's the link with the Article's title: Vanguard makes mockery of 'digital' myth by reporting $1.3 trillion after its new mobile app's panned debut -- then makes Tara Bunch a director

The new hire might actually do some good. As I've noted in my critique of Vanguard's website here: Re: Vanguard Website, change comes from the top.

I don't know which corporate executive is making the website decisions, but I'm betting that the person does not have a software background. Yes, it is important that everything you do complies with legal and comes in under budget.

However, it is critical that you follow accepted practices and processes in terms of system architecture, website design, and especially know how to do Quality Assurance (testing). The person calling the shots at the top level needs to be well-versed in the engineering process, not financial nor legal. Legal and financial inputs can be contributed by other corporate executives, but must be subordinate to engineering.

It's why technical companies have Quality Assurance (QA - product testing) at an equal organizational level to the CEO. When a product breaks during the manufacturing process and QA says "Stop", the decision will not be overruled by the CEO. It's in the company's best interest to do so. (I've experienced this myself when I was working as an engineer. It was an interesting experience not to be repeated, but they stopped as they should...)

=====================
Clarification - The article mentions Bogleheads.org as a "Vanguard forum". As noted in our tagline at the top of the page, "Investing Advice Inspired by Jack Bogle", we follow the man - not the company. I no longer recommend Vanguard to hold investments due to the website.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by etfan »

The app login screen does not have a box for username. It only asks for my password. Entering the password consistently results in a "wrong password" error. I know the password is correct because I can log in on the website with it. This has been happening for a couple weeks, so I guess I should just get rid of the app and rely on their website. I hope the website continues to work!
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by KarenC »

etfan wrote: Mon Dec 20, 2021 11:21 am The app login screen does not have a box for username. It only asks for my password. Entering the password consistently results in a "wrong password" error. I know the password is correct because I can log in on the website with it. This has been happening for a couple weeks, so I guess I should just get rid of the app and rely on their website. I hope the website continues to work!
Check Support -> Settings and see if "Remember me" is set.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Matahari »

As of today, I still cannot deposit a mobile check on the new app. On the old app, the mobile check deposit was seamless and I loved using it.
With the new app, each time I make many tries and despite taking clear images of the check each time, kept getting message that the "signature" is not clear, or something to that effect. The signature is perfectly clear and legible.

I called Flagship and spoke with a "rollover" rep (not the individual whose name is on our account statement) and was advised to use the paper deposit form and the USPS. This was after I told him that I had absolutely no problem with mobile deposits using checks from the same checking account, into the same Vanguard account, with the same signature for almost 2 years under the old app regime. So, I did not need for him to explain the process to me like I was a newbie.

No explanation was forthcoming from the rep except for his repeated recommendations to use the paper deposit and USPS. I told him that it was unacceptable to substitute a next-day electronic deposit with a USPS-paper deposit that takes up to a week for the funds to arrive. He indicated that Vanguard is "aware" of problems with its new app. I mentioned all the complaints that have been posted on the app store and here. So, FWIW, I put in my sharply-worded complaint. Rep said he would be filling out some internal complaint form based on my call.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by tetractys »

invester123 wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 10:59 pm Anyone else have trouble logging on with the app - incorrect username/password. Can log on fine with mobile browser.
YES, cannot log on to app, even after updating the password on the main site. And for some reason I never had the option to deposit anyway.

We'll have to wait for the app to actually work--it may take awhile. It's not a huge deal though, since the main site works OK on smartphones. Even though the Vanguard app is starting over, the situation is not all THAT much different from other financial sites in that they all have things that can only be done through the main portal. Not having a wonderful app is a little sad; but all in all hardly an inconvenience.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by yohac »

Matahari wrote: Tue Dec 21, 2021 3:19 pm As of today, I still cannot deposit a mobile check on the new app. On the old app, the mobile check deposit was seamless and I loved using it.
This was the only reason I ever used the app. Have to wonder if it doesn't work for anybody, and if not, why they just don't remove the function rather than pay for all these support calls.

My local credit union, 1/3000th of Vanguard's size, has had this feature running flawlessly for nearly a decade.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Matahari »

yohac wrote: Tue Dec 21, 2021 3:44 pm
Matahari wrote: Tue Dec 21, 2021 3:19 pm As of today, I still cannot deposit a mobile check on the new app. On the old app, the mobile check deposit was seamless and I loved using it.
This was the only reason I ever used the app. Have to wonder if it doesn't work for anybody, and if not, why they just don't remove the function rather than pay for all these support calls.

My local credit union, 1/3000th of Vanguard's size, has had this feature running flawlessly for nearly a decade.
If they were to eliminate the mobile check function, then there is scarcely reason for me to use the app. I would simply use a browser to log in to Vanguard's website to execute any other transaction I need and the app would be pointless for my purposes.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by nydoc »

I am already using web for Vanguard. New app is horrendous. Now just waiting to transfer my remaining assets to Schwab.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Danw »

I still have the old app on my iPad. I wonder how long I can safely use it? I have the new app on my phone and it’s definitely a downgrade for mutual fund accounts.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

Standard procedure is to always update your apps to the latest version. Security is a very good reason to do so.

If features break after the update, then decide if it's time to uninstall the app.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Galt guy »

davetopia wrote: Thu Dec 16, 2021 10:39 pm
invester123 wrote: Wed Dec 15, 2021 10:59 pm Anyone else have trouble logging on with the app - incorrect username/password. Can log on fine with mobile browser.
I started running into this issue as well. I found the solution is to open a Schwab account.
I was repeatedly getting a message that I'd entered the wrong password. I haven't opened a Schwab account (yet), but I have deleted the app from my phone and iPad, and just use the web interface. I don't get the wrong password message there.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by tetractys »

iOS—Had to delete the app and reinstall it in order to log on. Still no option to deposit a check.

Unfortunately on iOS it is no longer possible to reinstall older app versions.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Matahari »

tetractys wrote: Wed Dec 22, 2021 8:56 pm iOS—Had to delete the app and reinstall it in order to log on. Still no option to deposit a check.

Unfortunately on iOS it is no longer possible to reinstall older app versions.
That is unfortunate.

Would you consider calling Vanguard to add your voice to the chorus of complaints? Surely this is something that they intend to remedy very, very soon!
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Scotttheking »

Wow that app is awful.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by tetractys »

Matahari wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 1:41 pm
tetractys wrote: Wed Dec 22, 2021 8:56 pm iOS—Had to delete the app and reinstall it in order to log on. Still no option to deposit a check.

Unfortunately on iOS it is no longer possible to reinstall older app versions.
That is unfortunate.

Would you consider calling Vanguard to add your voice to the chorus of complaints? Surely this is something that they intend to remedy very, very soon!
So I looked at my account online and called Vanguard. Vanguard is merging my individual brokerage and mutual fund accounts into one brokerage account. This saves the history of both accounts and also enables the mobile check deposit on the app, which only works on brokerage accounts. Timeline is 2 business days.

So problem solved. Vanguard’s deprecation of its mutual fund platform is reflected in the app’s lack of support. For access to mobile check deposits, upgrade to the brokerage platform.

The caveat for me is that I have to reapply for check writing, and definitely checkout the account level reinvestment options ASAP.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Cara »

I don't have a LinkedIn account (too many irrelevant emails from them, over the years), but there is a post there, supposedly by Ms. Bunch, about joining Vanguard. Maybe someone can copy & paste?

Hope this works:
<deleted for copyright reasons>
Last edited by Cara on Thu Dec 23, 2021 6:00 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Matahari »

tetractys wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 2:10 pm
Matahari wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 1:41 pm
tetractys wrote: Wed Dec 22, 2021 8:56 pm iOS—Had to delete the app and reinstall it in order to log on. Still no option to deposit a check.

Unfortunately on iOS it is no longer possible to reinstall older app versions.
That is unfortunate.

Would you consider calling Vanguard to add your voice to the chorus of complaints? Surely this is something that they intend to remedy very, very soon!
So I looked at my account online and called Vanguard. Vanguard is merging my individual brokerage and mutual fund accounts into one brokerage account. This saves the history of both accounts and also enables the mobile check deposit on the app, which only works on brokerage accounts. Timeline is 2 business days.

So problem solved. Vanguard’s deprecation of its mutual fund platform is reflected in the app’s lack of support. For access to mobile check deposits, upgrade to the brokerage platform.

The caveat for me is that I have to reapply for check writing, and definitely checkout the account level reinvestment options ASAP.
So, Vanguard is saying that mobile check deposits only work if made into brokerage accounts?
My mobile check problems occurred while trying to deposit into a brokerage account.

Also, Vanguard disabled check writing on VMRXX Cash Reserve Fed Money Market Admiral fund some months ago. To date, I have yet to establish a Vanguard MM account that allows check writing. I'm counting on just using ACH to take money out from VMRXX and depositing into our BoA checking account. Another hassle that the Vanguard's changes to its MM funds and elimination of check writing has created on some funds. Used to be, we could just write large checks to pay for property taxes and large purchases out of Vanguard's Prime MM Fund.

Chasing down financial glitches is not my preferred hobby!
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by tetractys »

Matahari wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 2:45 pmSo, Vanguard is saying that mobile check deposits only work if made into brokerage accounts?
My mobile check problems occurred while trying to deposit into a brokerage account.

Also, Vanguard disabled check writing on VMRXX Cash Reserve Fed Money Market Admiral fund some months ago. To date, I have yet to establish a Vanguard MM account that allows check writing. I'm counting on just using ACH to take money out from VMRXX and depositing into our BoA checking account. Another hassle that the Vanguard's changes to its MM funds and elimination of check writing has created on some funds. Used to be, we could just write large checks to pay for property taxes and large purchases out of Vanguard's Prime MM Fund.

Chasing down financial glitches is not my preferred hobby!
Dear Margaretha Geertruida MacLeod,

Yes the old mutual fund platform is deprecated and is not supported in the new app. Initially I thought my individual account was a brokerage account; but it wasn't. Several years ago Vanguard provided separate accounts for Vanguard mutual funds and for outside investments. Now one Brokerage account can accommodate both. In my case I had some outdated cash avenues from outside brokers still open and those had to be closed.

Yes check writing for money market accounts is obsolete now. Check writing for bond funds is still there.

It won't surprise me if I have to reinstall the app again in a few days for it to work fully.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

Cara wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 2:19 pm I don't have a LinkedIn account (too many irrelevant emails from them, over the years), but there is a post there, supposedly by Ms. Bunch, about joining Vanguard. Maybe someone can copy & paste?

Hope this works:
<deleted for copyright reasons>
[ quote updated to match post --admin LadyGeek]

Be aware of the LinkedIn User Agreement. If you need a login to view the content, then it shouldn't be copied here.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

Does the app show the account's settlement fund (Vanguard Federal Money Market)?

The desktop website version is not as helpful as it could be. It does should account credit and debit details, but I have reduced funds available for withdrawal that are not explained by what's shown in the "Balance & holdings" section of the website.

If I dig into my account transaction history, I can see the pending transaction that will settle tomorrow. I shouldn't have to wonder what's going on.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by Cara »

LadyGeek wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 4:05 pm
Cara wrote: Thu Dec 23, 2021 2:19 pm I don't have a LinkedIn account (too many irrelevant emails from them, over the years), but there is a post there, supposedly by Ms. Bunch, about joining Vanguard. Maybe someone can copy & paste?

Hope this works:
<deleted for copyright reasons>
[ quote updated to match post --admin LadyGeek]

Be aware of the LinkedIn User Agreement. If you need a login to view the content, then it shouldn't be copied here.
I removed the link, but can you delete my post and this post and your post informing me of the user agreement? Thanks...
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by LadyGeek »

I updated the quotes to match your post. If you wish to discuss anything further, please PM me.
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Re: Vanguard's new mobile app (formerly known as "Beacon")

Post by etfan »

KarenC wrote: Tue Dec 21, 2021 6:51 am
etfan wrote: Mon Dec 20, 2021 11:21 am The app login screen does not have a box for username. It only asks for my password. Entering the password consistently results in a "wrong password" error. I know the password is correct because I can log in on the website with it. This has been happening for a couple weeks, so I guess I should just get rid of the app and rely on their website. I hope the website continues to work!
Check Support -> Settings and see if "Remember me" is set.
I uninstalled and re-installed the app and that fixed the problem. I can login and it works.

But now, when I try to do any transactions, such as sell some shares, it asks for a password again "to prevent fraud", and I get the same problem again.
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