ARKF vs VTI
ARK Blockchain & Fintech Innovation ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ARKF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $701M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.11% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 41 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -9.24% | +13.67% | |
| 1Y Return | -16.86% | +22.17% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +30.15% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.73% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 38.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -78.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 1, 2019 | May 24, 2001 |
ARKF vs VTI Performance
ARK Blockchain & Fintech Innovation ETF (ARKF) is a ETF from Ark Invest and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ARKF returned -16.86% while VTI returned +22.17%. Year to date, ARKF is down 9.24% versus a gain of 13.67% for VTI.
Over three years, ARKF compounded at +30.15% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -2.73% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, ARKF has the edge at +10.74% annualized vs +8.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ARKF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 38.0% compared with 15.3% 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 -78.6% for ARKF 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ARKF charges 0.75% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $3 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ARKF currently yields 0.11% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ARKF and VTI share 20 holdings out of 2804 unique holdings combined, representing a 9.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ARKF or VTI?
ARKF has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ARKF or VTI?
Over the past year ARKF returned -16.86% vs +22.17% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), ARKF annualized +10.74% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ARKF or VTI?
ARKF has been the more volatile fund at 38.0% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ARKF -78.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ARKF and VTI?
ARKF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ARKF and VTI?
ARKF and VTI share 20 common holdings with a 9.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2804 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ARKF or VTI?
ARKF yields 0.11% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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