CTA vs VTI
Simplify Managed Futures Strategy 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 | CTA | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.12% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 125 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +3.47% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.40% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.72% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 1, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
CTA vs VTI Performance
Simplify Managed Futures Strategy ETF (CTA) 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 CTA returned +6.40% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, CTA is up 3.47% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, CTA compounded at +7.72% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +7.60%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CTA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -20.8% for CTA 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 -0.26. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CTA charges 0.75% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $3 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CTA currently yields 5.12% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CTA and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2784 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CTA or VTI?
CTA has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CTA or VTI?
Over the past year CTA returned +6.40% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), CTA annualized +7.60% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CTA or VTI?
CTA has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: CTA -20.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CTA and VTI?
CTA and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.26, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CTA and VTI?
CTA and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2784 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CTA or VTI?
CTA yields 5.12% while VTI yields 1.07%, so CTA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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