DWAT vs VTI
Arrow DWA Tactical ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DWAT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.83% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 10.89% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -4.04% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.06% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +0.81% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.05% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Arrow Investment Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 1, 2014 | May 24, 2001 |
DWAT vs VTI Performance
Arrow DWA Tactical ETF (DWAT) is a ETF from Arrow Investment Trust and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DWAT returned +0.06% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, DWAT is down 4.04% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, DWAT compounded at +0.81% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.05% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +4.84%. 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 12.8% for DWAT. 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 -34.7% for DWAT 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DWAT charges 1.83% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $183 vs $3 annually, a gap of $180 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DWAT currently yields 10.89% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DWAT or VTI?
DWAT has an expense ratio of 1.83% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $180 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DWAT or VTI?
Over the past year DWAT returned +0.06% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), DWAT annualized +4.84% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DWAT or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 12.8% for DWAT. Worst drawdown: DWAT -34.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both DWAT and VTI?
DWAT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, DWAT or VTI?
DWAT yields 10.89% while VTI yields 1.07%, so DWAT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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