DDFS vs VTI

Quick Verdict

VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.

Lower Fees: VTIHigher Returns: VTIMore Diversified: VTI

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricDDFSVTIWinner
Expense Ratio0.79%0.03%
AUM$45M$663.5B
Dividend Yield0.00%1.07%
Holdings73,543
YTD Return+4.94%+14.22%
1Y Return+8.29%+22.19%
3Y Return (annualized)-+21.27%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.23%
Volatility (annualized)-15.3%
Max Drawdown-2.3%-56.6%
Fund FamilyInnovator ETFs TrustVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionSep 2, 2025May 24, 2001

DDFS vs VTI Performance

Innovator Equity Dual Directional 15 Buffer ETF - September (DDFS) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DDFS returned +8.29% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, DDFS is up 4.94% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -2.3% for DDFS and -56.6% for VTI. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.

Fees and Cost Over Time

DDFS charges 0.79% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $3 annually, a gap of $76 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDFS currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, DDFS or VTI?

DDFS has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $76 per year of difference.

Which performed better, DDFS or VTI?

Over the past year DDFS returned +8.29% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which pays a higher dividend, DDFS or VTI?

DDFS yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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