CSM vs VTI
ProShares Large Cap Core Plus vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. CSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CSM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $509M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 308 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.74% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.40% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.49% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.82% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 13, 2009 | May 24, 2001 |
CSM vs VTI Performance
ProShares Large Cap Core Plus (CSM) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CSM returned +22.40% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, CSM is up 12.74% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, CSM compounded at +21.49% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +12.82% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, CSM has the edge at +15.01% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 15.0% for CSM. 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 -36.1% for CSM 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 0.98. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CSM charges 0.45% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $3 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CSM currently yields 1.05% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CSM and VTI share 265 holdings out of 2820 unique holdings combined, representing a 50.7% weight overlap.
High overlap means holding both may not provide much additional diversification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CSM or VTI?
CSM has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CSM or VTI?
Over the past year CSM returned +22.40% vs +22.39% for VTI, so CSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), CSM annualized +15.01% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CSM or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 15.0% for CSM. Worst drawdown: CSM -36.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CSM and VTI?
CSM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.98, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between CSM and VTI?
CSM and VTI share 265 common holdings with a 50.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2820 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CSM or VTI?
CSM yields 1.05% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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