FSCS vs VTI
First Trust SMID Capital Strength 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 | FSCS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $58M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.91% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +7.63% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.11% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.59% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.69% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 20, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
FSCS vs VTI Performance
First Trust SMID Capital Strength ETF (FSCS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FSCS returned +6.11% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, FSCS is up 7.63% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, FSCS compounded at +10.59% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.69% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FSCS has the edge at +8.35% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FSCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.6% 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 -43.6% for FSCS 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
FSCS charges 0.60% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $3 annually, a gap of $57 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSCS currently yields 0.91% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FSCS and VTI share 73 holdings out of 2810 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FSCS or VTI?
FSCS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $57 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSCS or VTI?
Over the past year FSCS returned +6.11% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FSCS annualized +8.35% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSCS or VTI?
FSCS has been the more volatile fund at 19.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FSCS -43.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FSCS and VTI?
FSCS 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 FSCS and VTI?
FSCS and VTI share 73 common holdings with a 1.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2810 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSCS or VTI?
FSCS yields 0.91% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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