FSTA vs VTI
Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples 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 | FSTA | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.21% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 96 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +10.86% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.32% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.06% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.03% | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 21, 2013 | May 24, 2001 |
FSTA vs VTI Performance
Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (FSTA) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FSTA returned +6.32% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, FSTA is up 10.86% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, FSTA compounded at +8.06% per year against +21.12% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +7.03% and +12.37% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +7.16%. 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 12.4% for FSTA. 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 -25.7% for FSTA 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSTA charges 0.08% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $3 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSTA currently yields 2.21% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FSTA and VTI share 74 holdings out of 2802 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FSTA or VTI?
FSTA has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSTA or VTI?
Over the past year FSTA returned +6.32% vs +24.16% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FSTA annualized +7.16% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSTA or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 12.4% for FSTA. Worst drawdown: FSTA -25.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FSTA and VTI?
FSTA and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSTA and VTI?
FSTA and VTI share 74 common holdings with a 4.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2802 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSTA or VTI?
FSTA yields 2.21% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FSTA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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