FTDS vs VTI
First Trust Dividend Strength ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FTDS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTDS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $38M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.67% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +17.35% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.54% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.89% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.31% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.5% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -54.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2006 | May 24, 2001 |
FTDS vs VTI Performance
First Trust Dividend Strength ETF (FTDS) 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 FTDS returned +22.54% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, FTDS is up 17.35% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, FTDS compounded at +16.89% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.31% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +6.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTDS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.5% compared with 15.4% 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 -54.7% for FTDS 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTDS charges 0.70% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $3 annually, a gap of $67 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTDS currently yields 1.67% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FTDS and VTI share 41 holdings out of 2792 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTDS or VTI?
FTDS has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $67 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTDS or VTI?
Over the past year FTDS returned +22.54% vs +22.39% for VTI, so FTDS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), FTDS annualized +6.86% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTDS or VTI?
FTDS has been the more volatile fund at 17.5% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FTDS -54.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FTDS and VTI?
FTDS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, 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 FTDS and VTI?
FTDS and VTI share 41 common holdings with a 2.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2792 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTDS or VTI?
FTDS yields 1.67% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FTDS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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