EFU vs VTI
ProShares UltraShort MSCI EAFE 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 | EFU | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.01% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -23.17% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -32.90% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -26.77% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -17.02% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 33.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 23, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
EFU vs VTI Performance
ProShares UltraShort MSCI EAFE (EFU) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EFU returned -32.90% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, EFU is down 23.17% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, EFU compounded at -26.77% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -17.02% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -20.42%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EFU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 33.3% 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 -99.5% for EFU 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 -0.81. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EFU 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, EFU currently yields 5.01% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EFU or VTI?
EFU 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, EFU or VTI?
Over the past year EFU returned -32.90% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), EFU annualized -20.42% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EFU or VTI?
EFU has been the more volatile fund at 33.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: EFU -99.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both EFU and VTI?
EFU and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, EFU or VTI?
EFU yields 5.01% while VTI yields 1.07%, so EFU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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