FLQS vs VTI
Franklin US Small Cap Multifactor Index 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 | FLQS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $53M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.33% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 499 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +16.14% | +13.67% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.62% | +22.17% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.55% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.17% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -42.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
FLQS vs VTI Performance
Franklin US Small Cap Multifactor Index ETF (FLQS) 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 FLQS returned +17.62% while VTI returned +22.17%. Year to date, FLQS is up 16.14% versus a gain of 13.67% for VTI.
Over three years, FLQS compounded at +13.55% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +7.17% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FLQS has the edge at +8.91% annualized vs +8.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLQS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.6% 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 -42.2% for FLQS 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLQS charges 0.35% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $3 annually, a gap of $32 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLQS currently yields 1.33% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FLQS and VTI share 357 holdings out of 2921 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLQS or VTI?
FLQS has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $32 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLQS or VTI?
Over the past year FLQS returned +17.62% vs +22.17% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLQS annualized +8.91% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLQS or VTI?
FLQS has been the more volatile fund at 18.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FLQS -42.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FLQS and VTI?
FLQS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLQS and VTI?
FLQS and VTI share 357 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2921 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLQS or VTI?
FLQS yields 1.33% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FLQS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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