EMCS vs VTI
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. EMCS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMCS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $989M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.61% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 67 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +23.44% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +44.02% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.15% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.57% | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.2% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2018 | May 24, 2001 |
EMCS vs VTI Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF (EMCS) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMCS returned +44.02% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, EMCS is up 23.44% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, EMCS compounded at +26.15% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.57% and +12.34% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, EMCS has the edge at +9.96% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.2% compared with 15.4% 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 -44.9% for EMCS 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMCS charges 0.15% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $3 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMCS currently yields 1.61% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
EMCS and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2849 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EMCS | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPGP | 0.00% | 0.00% | 0.00% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EMCS or VTI?
EMCS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMCS or VTI?
Over the past year EMCS returned +44.02% vs +22.43% for VTI, so EMCS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), EMCS annualized +9.96% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMCS or VTI?
EMCS has been the more volatile fund at 19.2% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: EMCS -44.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both EMCS and VTI?
EMCS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMCS and VTI?
EMCS and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2849 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMCS or VTI?
EMCS yields 1.61% while VTI yields 1.07%, so EMCS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.