BLV vs VTI
Vanguard Long-Term Bond ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BLV | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.03% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $6.0B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.72% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 2,941 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -2.87% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.77% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +1.93% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -4.85% | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 3, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
BLV vs VTI Performance
Vanguard Long-Term Bond ETF (BLV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BLV returned -0.77% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, BLV is down 2.87% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Over three years, BLV compounded at +1.93% per year against +21.43% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -4.85% and +12.33% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +0.50%. 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 11.0% for BLV. 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 -40.7% for BLV 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 0.20. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BLV charges 0.03% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $3 vs $3 annually. On income, BLV currently yields 4.72% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BLV or VTI?
BLV has an expense ratio of 0.03% while VTI charges 0.03%. They cost the same. On a $10,000 investment, that is $0 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BLV or VTI?
Over the past year BLV returned -0.77% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), BLV annualized +0.50% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BLV or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 11.0% for BLV. Worst drawdown: BLV -40.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both BLV and VTI?
BLV and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.20, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BLV and VTI?
BLV and VTI share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 5546 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BLV or VTI?
BLV yields 4.72% while VTI yields 1.07%, so BLV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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