CSQ vs VTI
Calamos Strategic Total Return Fund 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 | CSQ | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.03% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $5.0B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.90% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 816 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.19% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.27% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.64% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.28% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -72.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Calamos Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 26, 2004 | May 24, 2001 |
CSQ vs VTI Performance
Calamos Strategic Total Return Fund (CSQ) is a ETF from Calamos Investments and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CSQ returned +21.27% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, CSQ is up 13.19% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, CSQ compounded at +20.64% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.28% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 22-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +3.40%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CSQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.3% 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 -72.7% for CSQ 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CSQ charges 2.03% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $203 vs $3 annually, a gap of $200 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CSQ currently yields 5.90% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CSQ and VTI share 261 holdings out of 2974 unique holdings combined, representing a 51.7% weight overlap.
High overlap means holding both may not provide much additional diversification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CSQ or VTI?
CSQ has an expense ratio of 2.03% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $200 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CSQ or VTI?
Over the past year CSQ returned +21.27% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (22 years), CSQ annualized +3.40% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CSQ or VTI?
CSQ has been the more volatile fund at 20.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: CSQ -72.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CSQ and VTI?
CSQ and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CSQ and VTI?
CSQ and VTI share 261 common holdings with a 51.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2974 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CSQ or VTI?
CSQ yields 5.90% while VTI yields 1.07%, so CSQ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.