BSV vs VTV
Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF vs Vanguard Value ETF
Quick Verdict
VTV delivered stronger 1-year returns. BSV offers more diversification with 2787 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BSV | VTV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.03% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $44.8B | $186.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 2.29% | |
| Holdings | 3,125 | 311 | |
| YTD Return | +0.30% | +18.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.30% | +29.51% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.43% | +18.49% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.57% | +12.32% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.4% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.0% | -61.3% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 3, 2007 | Jan 26, 2004 |
BSV vs VTV Performance
Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (BSV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Value ETF (VTV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BSV returned +2.30% while VTV returned +29.51%. Year to date, BSV is up 0.30% versus a gain of 18.10% for VTV.
Over three years, BSV compounded at +4.43% per year against +18.49% for VTV; over five years the annualized figures are +1.57% and +12.32% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VTV has the edge at +7.60% annualized vs +0.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.5% compared with 2.4% for BSV. 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 -9.0% for BSV and -61.3% for VTV. 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 0.12. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BSV charges 0.03% per year while VTV charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $3 vs $3 annually. On income, BSV currently yields 3.98% against 2.29% for VTV.
Holdings Overlap
BSV and VTV share 5 holdings out of 3090 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in BSV | Weight in VTV | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| DUK | 0.00% | 0.37% | 0.37% |
| AFL | 0.01% | 0.20% | 0.19% |
| KDP | 0.01% | 0.16% | 0.15% |
| KVUE | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| LEN 4.75 11/29/27 | Pro | Pro | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BSV or VTV?
BSV has an expense ratio of 0.03% while VTV charges 0.03%. They cost the same. On a $10,000 investment, that is $0 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BSV or VTV?
Over the past year BSV returned +2.30% vs +29.51% for VTV, so VTV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), BSV annualized +0.91% vs +7.60% for VTV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BSV or VTV?
VTV has been the more volatile fund at 14.5% annualized versus 2.4% for BSV. Worst drawdown: BSV -9.0% vs VTV -61.3%.
Should I hold both BSV and VTV?
BSV and VTV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.12, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BSV and VTV?
BSV and VTV share 5 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3090 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BSV or VTV?
BSV yields 3.98% while VTV yields 2.29%, so BSV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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