EPU vs VTI
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. EPU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EPU | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $543M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.95% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 34 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +26.83% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +78.93% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +48.20% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +36.02% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2009 | May 24, 2001 |
EPU vs VTI Performance
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF (EPU) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EPU returned +78.93% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, EPU is up 26.83% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, EPU compounded at +48.20% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +36.02% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, EPU has the edge at +9.36% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EPU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.6% 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 -64.6% for EPU 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 0.52. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EPU charges 0.59% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $3 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EPU currently yields 1.95% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
EPU and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2812 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 EPU | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAUR | 2.68% | 0.00% | 2.68% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EPU or VTI?
EPU has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EPU or VTI?
Over the past year EPU returned +78.93% vs +21.39% for VTI, so EPU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), EPU annualized +9.36% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EPU or VTI?
EPU has been the more volatile fund at 24.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: EPU -64.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both EPU and VTI?
EPU and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.52, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EPU and VTI?
EPU and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2812 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EPU or VTI?
EPU yields 1.95% while VTI yields 1.07%, so EPU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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