FDG vs VTI
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $428M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +6.49% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.83% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +27.49% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.35% | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | American Century ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
FDG vs VTI Performance
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth ETF (FDG) is a ETF from American Century ETFs and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FDG returned +16.83% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, FDG is up 6.49% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, FDG compounded at +27.49% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.35% and +12.34% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FDG has the edge at +21.79% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% compared with 15.4% 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 -43.7% for FDG 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDG charges 0.45% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $3 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDG currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FDG and VTI share 35 holdings out of 2796 unique holdings combined, representing a 24.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDG or VTI?
FDG has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDG or VTI?
Over the past year FDG returned +16.83% vs +22.43% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FDG annualized +21.79% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDG or VTI?
FDG has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FDG -43.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FDG and VTI?
FDG and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDG and VTI?
FDG and VTI share 35 common holdings with a 24.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2796 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDG or VTI?
FDG yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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