CVRT vs VTI
Calamos Convertible Equity Alternative ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. CVRT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CVRT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $31M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 92 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +24.10% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +47.39% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Calamos Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Convertible | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 4, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
CVRT vs VTI Performance
Calamos Convertible Equity Alternative ETF (CVRT) is a ETF from Calamos Asset Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CVRT returned +47.39% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, CVRT is up 24.10% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CVRT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.0% 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 -20.9% for CVRT 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CVRT charges 0.69% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $3 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CVRT currently yields 1.05% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CVRT and VTI share 56 holdings out of 2815 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CVRT or VTI?
CVRT has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CVRT or VTI?
Over the past year CVRT returned +47.39% vs +23.62% for VTI, so CVRT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), CVRT annualized +28.97% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CVRT or VTI?
CVRT has been the more volatile fund at 19.0% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: CVRT -20.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CVRT and VTI?
CVRT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CVRT and VTI?
CVRT and VTI share 56 common holdings with a 4.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2815 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CVRT or VTI?
CVRT yields 1.05% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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