FFSM vs VTI
Fidelity Fundamental Small-Mid Cap ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FFSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FFSM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.44% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 210 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +18.84% | +13.12% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.21% | +20.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.03% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.95% | +11.84% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 2, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
FFSM vs VTI Performance
Fidelity Fundamental Small-Mid Cap ETF (FFSM) 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 FFSM returned +29.21% while VTI returned +20.82%. Year to date, FFSM is up 18.84% versus a gain of 13.12% for VTI.
Over three years, FFSM compounded at +20.03% per year against +21.43% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +9.95% and +11.84% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FFSM has the edge at +11.84% annualized vs +8.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FFSM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.8% 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 -26.6% for FFSM 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FFSM charges 0.43% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $3 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FFSM currently yields 0.44% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FFSM and VTI share 160 holdings out of 2846 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FFSM or VTI?
FFSM has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FFSM or VTI?
Over the past year FFSM returned +29.21% vs +20.82% for VTI, so FFSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FFSM annualized +11.84% vs +8.08% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FFSM or VTI?
FFSM has been the more volatile fund at 18.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FFSM -26.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FFSM and VTI?
FFSM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FFSM and VTI?
FFSM and VTI share 160 common holdings with a 2.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2846 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FFSM or VTI?
FFSM yields 0.44% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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