ARKW vs VTI
ARK Next Generation Internet 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 | ARKW | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.76% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.72% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 44 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.52% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.07% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +40.67% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.67% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 33.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 30, 2014 | May 24, 2001 |
ARKW vs VTI Performance
ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW) is a ETF from Ark Invest and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ARKW returned +0.07% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, ARKW is up 1.52% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, ARKW compounded at +40.67% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +1.67% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, ARKW has the edge at +20.99% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ARKW has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 33.7% 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 -80.0% for ARKW 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ARKW charges 0.76% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $76 vs $3 annually, a gap of $73 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ARKW currently yields 1.72% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ARKW and VTI share 30 holdings out of 2798 unique holdings combined, representing a 16.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ARKW or VTI?
ARKW has an expense ratio of 0.76% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $73 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ARKW or VTI?
Over the past year ARKW returned +0.07% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), ARKW annualized +20.99% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ARKW or VTI?
ARKW has been the more volatile fund at 33.7% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ARKW -80.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ARKW and VTI?
ARKW and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ARKW and VTI?
ARKW and VTI share 30 common holdings with a 16.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2798 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ARKW or VTI?
ARKW yields 1.72% while VTI yields 1.07%, so ARKW currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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