BGLD vs VTI
FT Vest Gold Strategy Quarterly Buffer 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 | BGLD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.91% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $53M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +2.79% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.52% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.85% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.73% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 20, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
BGLD vs VTI Performance
FT Vest Gold Strategy Quarterly Buffer ETF (BGLD) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BGLD returned +16.52% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, BGLD is up 2.79% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, BGLD compounded at +21.85% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +12.73% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, BGLD has the edge at +10.53% annualized vs +8.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 10.5% for BGLD. 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 -16.2% for BGLD 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 0.19. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BGLD charges 0.91% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $91 vs $3 annually, a gap of $88 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BGLD currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BGLD or VTI?
BGLD has an expense ratio of 0.91% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $88 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BGLD or VTI?
Over the past year BGLD returned +16.52% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), BGLD annualized +10.53% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BGLD or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 10.5% for BGLD. Worst drawdown: BGLD -16.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both BGLD and VTI?
BGLD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.19, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BGLD or VTI?
BGLD yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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