BUFI vs VTI
BUFI vs VTI
AB International Buffer ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BUFI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $139M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 8 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +7.33% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.33% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | AllianceBernstein L.P. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 9, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
BUFI vs VTI Performance
AB International Buffer ETF (BUFI) is a ETF from AllianceBernstein L.P. and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BUFI returned +14.33% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, BUFI is up 7.33% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 5.1% for BUFI. 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 -7.4% for BUFI 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BUFI charges 0.69% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $3 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BUFI currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BUFI or VTI?
BUFI has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BUFI or VTI?
Over the past year BUFI returned +14.33% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), BUFI annualized +14.00% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BUFI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 5.1% for BUFI. Worst drawdown: BUFI -7.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both BUFI and VTI?
BUFI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BUFI or VTI?
BUFI yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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