DEFI vs VTI
Hashdex Bitcoin 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 | DEFI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $14M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 3 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -29.93% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -47.20% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 51.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Hashdex | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 15, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DEFI vs VTI Performance
Hashdex Bitcoin ETF (DEFI) is a ETF from Hashdex and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DEFI returned -47.20% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, DEFI is down 29.93% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DEFI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 51.5% 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 -53.2% for DEFI 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 0.49. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DEFI 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, DEFI currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DEFI or VTI?
DEFI 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, DEFI or VTI?
Over the past year DEFI returned -47.20% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), DEFI annualized +13.41% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DEFI or VTI?
DEFI has been the more volatile fund at 51.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DEFI -53.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DEFI and VTI?
DEFI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.49, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, DEFI or VTI?
DEFI yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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