EEMS vs VTI
Ishares MSCI Emerging Markets Small Cap 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 | EEMS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.73% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $357M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.81% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,875 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +10.73% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.23% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.53% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.80% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 16, 2011 | May 24, 2001 |
EEMS vs VTI Performance
Ishares MSCI Emerging Markets Small Cap ETF (EEMS) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EEMS returned +19.23% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, EEMS is up 10.73% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, EEMS compounded at +14.53% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.80% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +3.82%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EEMS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.3% 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 -51.7% for EEMS 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EEMS charges 0.73% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $73 vs $3 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EEMS currently yields 2.81% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
EEMS and VTI share 3 holdings out of 4250 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, EEMS or VTI?
EEMS has an expense ratio of 0.73% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EEMS or VTI?
Over the past year EEMS returned +19.23% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), EEMS annualized +3.82% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EEMS or VTI?
EEMS has been the more volatile fund at 17.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: EEMS -51.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both EEMS and VTI?
EEMS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EEMS and VTI?
EEMS and VTI share 3 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 4250 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EEMS or VTI?
EEMS yields 2.81% while VTI yields 1.07%, so EEMS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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