DMA vs VTI
Destra Multi-Alternative Fund 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 | DMA | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.69% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $80M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 13.39% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 181 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -6.08% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.18% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.72% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Destra Capital Investment LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 13, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
DMA vs VTI Performance
Destra Multi-Alternative Fund (DMA) is a ETF from Destra Capital Investment LLC and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DMA returned +2.18% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, DMA is down 6.08% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, DMA compounded at +23.72% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +5.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DMA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -38.9% for DMA 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 0.27. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DMA charges 3.69% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $369 vs $3 annually, a gap of $366 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DMA currently yields 13.39% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
DMA and VTI share 49 holdings out of 2797 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DMA or VTI?
DMA has an expense ratio of 3.69% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $366 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DMA or VTI?
Over the past year DMA returned +2.18% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), DMA annualized +5.13% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DMA or VTI?
DMA has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: DMA -38.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DMA and VTI?
DMA and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.27, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DMA and VTI?
DMA and VTI share 49 common holdings with a 7.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2797 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DMA or VTI?
DMA yields 13.39% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DMA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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