FAN vs VTI
First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FAN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FAN | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $256M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.99% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 57 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.73% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.47% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.44% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.28% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -82.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2008 | May 24, 2001 |
FAN vs VTI Performance
First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (FAN) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FAN returned +28.47% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, FAN is up 12.73% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, FAN compounded at +16.44% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +3.28% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 18-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs -1.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FAN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.7% 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 -82.1% for FAN 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FAN charges 0.60% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $3 annually, a gap of $57 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FAN currently yields 0.99% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FAN and VTI share 4 holdings out of 2830 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, FAN or VTI?
FAN has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $57 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FAN or VTI?
Over the past year FAN returned +28.47% vs +22.35% for VTI, so FAN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (18 years), FAN annualized -1.05% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAN or VTI?
FAN has been the more volatile fund at 24.7% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FAN -82.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FAN and VTI?
FAN and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FAN and VTI?
FAN and VTI share 4 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2830 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAN or VTI?
FAN yields 0.99% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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