ETHE vs VTI
Grayscale Ethereum Staking ETF 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 | ETHE | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.50% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -40.32% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | -56.61% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.79% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -11.25% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 112.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -96.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Grayscale | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 14, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
ETHE vs VTI Performance
Grayscale Ethereum Staking ETF (ETHE) is a ETF from Grayscale and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ETHE returned -56.61% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, ETHE is down 40.32% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, ETHE compounded at +14.79% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -11.25% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs -8.87%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ETHE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 112.7% 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 -96.3% for ETHE 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 0.36. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ETHE charges 2.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $250 vs $3 annually, a gap of $247 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ETHE currently yields 1.50% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ETHE or VTI?
ETHE has an expense ratio of 2.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $247 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ETHE or VTI?
Over the past year ETHE returned -56.61% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), ETHE annualized -8.87% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ETHE or VTI?
ETHE has been the more volatile fund at 112.7% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ETHE -96.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ETHE and VTI?
ETHE and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.36, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, ETHE or VTI?
ETHE yields 1.50% while VTI yields 1.07%, so ETHE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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