FCVT vs VTI
First Trust SSI Strategic Convertible Securities ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FCVT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FCVT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $104M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.14% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 137 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +19.38% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.31% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.53% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.59% | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.4% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Convertible | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 3, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
FCVT vs VTI Performance
First Trust SSI Strategic Convertible Securities ETF (FCVT) 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 FCVT returned +31.31% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, FCVT is up 19.38% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, FCVT compounded at +19.53% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.59% and +12.34% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, FCVT has the edge at +9.90% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 14.4% for FCVT. 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 -32.3% for FCVT 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FCVT charges 0.95% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $3 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FCVT currently yields 1.14% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FCVT and VTI share 3 holdings out of 2835 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, FCVT or VTI?
FCVT has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FCVT or VTI?
Over the past year FCVT returned +31.31% vs +22.43% for VTI, so FCVT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), FCVT annualized +9.90% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FCVT or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.4% for FCVT. Worst drawdown: FCVT -32.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FCVT and VTI?
FCVT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FCVT and VTI?
FCVT and VTI share 3 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2835 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FCVT or VTI?
FCVT yields 1.14% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FCVT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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