DDX vs VTI
DDX vs VTI
Defined Duration 10 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 | DDX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $72M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.33% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +4.53% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.40% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.64% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.29% | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Discipline Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 20, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
DDX vs VTI Performance
Defined Duration 10 ETF (DDX) is a ETF from Discipline Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DDX returned +8.40% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, DDX is up 4.53% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, DDX compounded at +7.64% per year against +21.12% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +0.29% and +12.37% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +0.29%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 8.7% for DDX. 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 -27.3% for DDX 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
DDX charges 0.25% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $3 annually, a gap of $22 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DDX currently yields 3.33% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DDX and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2789 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, DDX or VTI?
DDX has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $22 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DDX or VTI?
Over the past year DDX returned +8.40% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DDX annualized +0.29% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DDX or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 8.7% for DDX. Worst drawdown: DDX -27.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DDX and VTI?
DDX 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 DDX and VTI?
DDX and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2789 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DDX or VTI?
DDX yields 3.33% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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