AGD vs VTI
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AGD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.35% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $326M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.71% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 88 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +14.01% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.66% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.06% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.13% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.7% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2006 | May 24, 2001 |
AGD vs VTI Performance
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund (AGD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AGD returned +21.66% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, AGD is up 14.01% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, AGD compounded at +22.06% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.13% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs -3.22%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AGD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.7% compared with 15.4% for VTI. 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 -88.3% for AGD and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AGD charges 1.35% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $135 vs $3 annually, a gap of $132 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AGD currently yields 11.71% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
AGD and VTI share 44 holdings out of 2825 unique holdings combined, representing a 18.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AGD or VTI?
AGD has an expense ratio of 1.35% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $132 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AGD or VTI?
Over the past year AGD returned +21.66% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), AGD annualized -3.22% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AGD or VTI?
AGD has been the more volatile fund at 23.7% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: AGD -88.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both AGD and VTI?
AGD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AGD and VTI?
AGD and VTI share 44 common holdings with a 18.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2825 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AGD or VTI?
AGD yields 11.71% while VTI yields 1.07%, so AGD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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