DIG vs VTI
ProShares Ultra Energy vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. DIG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DIG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $80M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +52.71% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +77.63% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.01% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +33.24% | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 52.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -97.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
DIG vs VTI Performance
ProShares Ultra Energy (DIG) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DIG returned +77.63% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, DIG is up 52.71% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, DIG compounded at +14.01% per year against +21.12% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +33.24% and +12.37% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -1.76%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DIG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 52.9% 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 -97.4% for DIG 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DIG charges 0.95% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $3 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DIG currently yields 1.80% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DIG and VTI share 21 holdings out of 2784 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DIG or VTI?
DIG has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DIG or VTI?
Over the past year DIG returned +77.63% vs +24.16% for VTI, so DIG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DIG annualized -1.76% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DIG or VTI?
DIG has been the more volatile fund at 52.9% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DIG -97.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DIG and VTI?
DIG and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DIG and VTI?
DIG and VTI share 21 common holdings with a 2.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2784 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DIG or VTI?
DIG yields 1.80% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DIG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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