FCG vs VTI
First Trust Natural Gas ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FCG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FCG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.57% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $611M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.24% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 40 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +26.26% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.53% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.16% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +19.61% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 40.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -97.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 8, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
FCG vs VTI Performance
First Trust Natural Gas ETF (FCG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FCG returned +33.53% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, FCG is up 26.26% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, FCG compounded at +7.16% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +19.61% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -5.30%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FCG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 40.9% 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 -97.6% for FCG 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 0.56. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FCG charges 0.57% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $57 vs $3 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FCG currently yields 2.24% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FCG and VTI share 27 holdings out of 2798 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FCG or VTI?
FCG has an expense ratio of 0.57% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FCG or VTI?
Over the past year FCG returned +33.53% vs +22.19% for VTI, so FCG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), FCG annualized -5.30% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FCG or VTI?
FCG has been the more volatile fund at 40.9% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FCG -97.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FCG and VTI?
FCG and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.56, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FCG and VTI?
FCG and VTI share 27 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2798 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FCG or VTI?
FCG yields 2.24% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FCG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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