AAVM vs VOO
Alpha Architect Global Factor Equity ETF vs Vanguard S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
VOO has a lower expense ratio. AAVM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VOO offers more diversification with 505 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AAVM | VOO | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $25M | $979.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 1.09% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 509 | |
| YTD Return | +15.45% | +13.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.45% | +22.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.87% | +21.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.68% | +13.27% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.9% | 14.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.7% | -34.3% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 2, 2017 | Sep 7, 2010 |
AAVM vs VOO Performance
Alpha Architect Global Factor Equity ETF (AAVM) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AAVM returned +29.45% while VOO returned +22.62%. Year to date, AAVM is up 15.45% versus a gain of 13.44% for VOO.
Over three years, AAVM compounded at +17.87% per year against +21.47% for VOO; over five years the annualized figures are +6.68% and +13.27% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VOO has the edge at +13.55% annualized vs +5.26%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VOO has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.1% compared with 12.9% for AAVM. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -34.7% for AAVM and -34.3% for VOO. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AAVM charges 0.38% per year while VOO charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $3 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AAVM currently yields 1.80% against 1.09% for VOO.
Holdings Overlap
AAVM and VOO share 0 holdings out of 510 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AAVM or VOO?
AAVM has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VOO charges 0.03%. VOO is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AAVM or VOO?
Over the past year AAVM returned +29.45% vs +22.62% for VOO, so AAVM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), AAVM annualized +5.26% vs +13.55% for VOO. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AAVM or VOO?
VOO has been the more volatile fund at 14.1% annualized versus 12.9% for AAVM. Worst drawdown: AAVM -34.7% vs VOO -34.3%.
Should I hold both AAVM and VOO?
AAVM and VOO have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AAVM and VOO?
AAVM and VOO share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 510 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AAVM or VOO?
AAVM yields 1.80% while VOO yields 1.09%, so AAVM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.