FDEM vs VTI
Fidelity Emerging Markets Multifactor ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FDEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $581M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 208 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.41% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.83% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.94% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.40% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 26, 2019 | May 24, 2001 |
FDEM vs VTI Performance
Fidelity Emerging Markets Multifactor ETF (FDEM) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FDEM returned +24.83% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, FDEM is up 13.41% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, FDEM compounded at +20.94% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.40% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, FDEM has the edge at +8.19% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.6% 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 -33.6% for FDEM 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDEM charges 0.25% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $3 annually, a gap of $22 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDEM currently yields 3.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FDEM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2986 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDEM or VTI?
FDEM has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $22 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDEM or VTI?
Over the past year FDEM returned +24.83% vs +21.39% for VTI, so FDEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FDEM annualized +8.19% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDEM or VTI?
FDEM has been the more volatile fund at 15.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FDEM -33.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FDEM and VTI?
FDEM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDEM and VTI?
FDEM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2986 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDEM or VTI?
FDEM yields 3.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FDEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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