FPAS vs VTI
FPA Short Duration Government 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 | FPAS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.10% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $11M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.77% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -1.99% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.26% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | FPA Investors First | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 31, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
FPAS vs VTI Performance
FPA Short Duration Government ETF (FPAS) is a ETF from FPA Investors First and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FPAS returned -0.26% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, FPAS is down 1.99% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 3.0% for FPAS. 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 -3.7% for FPAS 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 -0.10. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FPAS charges 0.10% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $10 vs $3 annually, a gap of $7 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FPAS currently yields 4.77% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FPAS or VTI?
FPAS has an expense ratio of 0.10% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $7 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FPAS or VTI?
Over the past year FPAS returned -0.26% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FPAS annualized +2.63% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FPAS or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 3.0% for FPAS. Worst drawdown: FPAS -3.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FPAS and VTI?
FPAS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.10, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FPAS or VTI?
FPAS yields 4.77% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FPAS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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