EQLT vs VTI
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Quality Factor ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. EQLT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EQLT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $12M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.13% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 321 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +24.21% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +45.64% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.44% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.44% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 4, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
EQLT vs VTI Performance
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Quality Factor ETF (EQLT) 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 EQLT returned +45.64% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, EQLT is up 24.21% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, EQLT compounded at +2.44% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +2.44% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +3.60%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EQLT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.1% 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 -45.8% for EQLT 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EQLT 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, EQLT currently yields 2.13% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EQLT or VTI?
EQLT 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, EQLT or VTI?
Over the past year EQLT returned +45.64% vs +23.31% for VTI, so EQLT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), EQLT annualized +3.60% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EQLT or VTI?
EQLT has been the more volatile fund at 19.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: EQLT -45.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both EQLT and VTI?
EQLT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EQLT and VTI?
EQLT and VTI share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3079 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EQLT or VTI?
EQLT yields 2.13% while VTI yields 1.07%, so EQLT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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