FGDL vs VTI
Franklin Responsibly Sourced Gold ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FGDL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FGDL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $448M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +3.98% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.91% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +33.54% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 30, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
FGDL vs VTI Performance
Franklin Responsibly Sourced Gold ETF (FGDL) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FGDL returned +34.91% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, FGDL is up 3.98% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, FGDL compounded at +33.54% per year against +21.54% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, FGDL has the edge at +24.68% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FGDL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.1% 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 FGDL 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 0.09. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FGDL charges 0.15% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $3 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FGDL currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FGDL or VTI?
FGDL has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FGDL or VTI?
Over the past year FGDL returned +34.91% vs +21.39% for VTI, so FGDL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FGDL annualized +24.68% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FGDL or VTI?
FGDL has been the more volatile fund at 18.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FGDL -26.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FGDL and VTI?
FGDL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.09, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FGDL or VTI?
FGDL yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.