CBLS vs VTI
Clough Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. CBLS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CBLS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.90% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $57M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.82% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 77 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +6.30% | +13.67% | |
| 1Y Return | +38.20% | +22.17% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.54% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Changebridge Capital | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 13, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
CBLS vs VTI Performance
Clough Hedged Equity ETF (CBLS) is a ETF from Changebridge Capital and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CBLS returned +38.20% while VTI returned +22.17%. Year to date, CBLS is up 6.30% versus a gain of 13.67% for VTI.
Over three years, CBLS compounded at +6.54% per year against +21.93% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, CBLS has the edge at +8.27% annualized vs +8.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CBLS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.2% 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 -32.8% for CBLS 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 0.56. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CBLS charges 1.90% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $190 vs $3 annually, a gap of $187 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CBLS currently yields 0.82% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CBLS and VTI share 59 holdings out of 2800 unique holdings combined, representing a 10.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CBLS or VTI?
CBLS has an expense ratio of 1.90% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $187 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CBLS or VTI?
Over the past year CBLS returned +38.20% vs +22.17% for VTI, so CBLS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), CBLS annualized +8.27% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CBLS or VTI?
CBLS has been the more volatile fund at 17.2% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: CBLS -32.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CBLS and VTI?
CBLS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.56, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CBLS and VTI?
CBLS and VTI share 59 common holdings with a 10.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2800 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CBLS or VTI?
CBLS yields 0.82% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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