ENFR vs VTI
Alerian Energy Infrastructure ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. ENFR delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ENFR | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $520M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.91% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +28.18% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.97% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +27.41% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +22.80% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -74.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 31, 2013 | May 24, 2001 |
ENFR vs VTI Performance
Alerian Energy Infrastructure ETF (ENFR) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ENFR returned +29.97% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, ENFR is up 28.18% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, ENFR compounded at +27.41% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +22.80% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +6.22%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ENFR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.2% 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 -74.3% for ENFR 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
ENFR charges 0.35% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $3 annually, a gap of $32 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ENFR currently yields 3.91% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ENFR and VTI share 9 holdings out of 2806 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ENFR or VTI?
ENFR has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $32 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ENFR or VTI?
Over the past year ENFR returned +29.97% vs +22.35% for VTI, so ENFR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), ENFR annualized +6.22% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ENFR or VTI?
ENFR has been the more volatile fund at 24.2% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ENFR -74.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ENFR and VTI?
ENFR 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 ENFR and VTI?
ENFR and VTI share 9 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2806 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ENFR or VTI?
ENFR yields 3.91% while VTI yields 1.07%, so ENFR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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