FLQL vs VTI
Franklin US Large Cap Multifactor Index ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FLQL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 220 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.85% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.45% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.42% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.86% | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
FLQL vs VTI Performance
Franklin US Large Cap Multifactor Index ETF (FLQL) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FLQL returned +21.45% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, FLQL is up 13.85% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Over three years, FLQL compounded at +22.42% per year against +21.43% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +13.86% and +12.33% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FLQL has the edge at +14.83% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 15.1% for FLQL. 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 FLQL 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 0.97. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLQL 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, FLQL currently yields 1.05% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FLQL and VTI share 14 holdings out of 2785 unique holdings combined, representing a 12.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLQL or VTI?
FLQL 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, FLQL or VTI?
Over the past year FLQL returned +21.45% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLQL annualized +14.83% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLQL or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 15.1% for FLQL. Worst drawdown: FLQL -33.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FLQL and VTI?
FLQL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.97, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between FLQL and VTI?
FLQL and VTI share 14 common holdings with a 12.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2785 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLQL or VTI?
FLQL yields 1.05% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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