CDX vs VTI
Simplify High Yield 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 | CDX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $377M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.31% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 227 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -1.94% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.14% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.23% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 14, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
CDX vs VTI Performance
Simplify High Yield ETF (CDX) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CDX returned -3.14% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, CDX is down 1.94% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, CDX compounded at +7.23% per year against +21.12% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +4.05%. 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 7.5% for CDX. 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 -13.2% for CDX 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CDX charges 0.25% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $3 annually, a gap of $22 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CDX currently yields 8.31% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CDX and VTI share 76 holdings out of 2863 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CDX or VTI?
CDX has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $22 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CDX or VTI?
Over the past year CDX returned -3.14% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), CDX annualized +4.05% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CDX or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 7.5% for CDX. Worst drawdown: CDX -13.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CDX and VTI?
CDX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CDX and VTI?
CDX and VTI share 76 common holdings with a 4.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2863 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CDX or VTI?
CDX yields 8.31% while VTI yields 1.07%, so CDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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