FTGS vs VGI
First Trust Growth Strength ETF vs Virtus Global Multi-Sector Income Fund
Quick Verdict
FTGS has a lower expense ratio. FTGS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VGI offers more diversification with 434 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTGS | VGI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 1.74% | |
| AUM | $1.3B | $88M | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.09% | 11.98% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 646 | |
| YTD Return | +13.23% | +1.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.66% | +4.18% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.89% | +10.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +2.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 14.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -63.3% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Virtus Investment Partners | |
| Category | Equity | Fixed Income | |
| Inception | Oct 25, 2022 | Feb 23, 2012 |
FTGS vs VGI Performance
First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Virtus Global Multi-Sector Income Fund (VGI) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners. Over the past year FTGS returned +16.66% while VGI returned +4.18%. Year to date, FTGS is up 13.23% versus a gain of 1.20% for VGI.
Over three years, FTGS compounded at +18.89% per year against +10.88% for VGI. Across the full 4-year window we track, FTGS has the edge at +20.00% annualized vs -2.40%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTGS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 14.1% for VGI. 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 -20.0% for FTGS and -63.3% for VGI. 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTGS charges 0.60% per year while VGI charges 1.74%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $174 annually, a gap of $114 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTGS currently yields 0.09% against 11.98% for VGI.
Holdings Overlap
FTGS and VGI share 0 holdings out of 484 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTGS or VGI?
FTGS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VGI charges 1.74%. FTGS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $114 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTGS or VGI?
Over the past year FTGS returned +16.66% vs +4.18% for VGI, so FTGS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTGS annualized +20.00% vs -2.40% for VGI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTGS or VGI?
FTGS has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.1% for VGI. Worst drawdown: FTGS -20.0% vs VGI -63.3%.
Should I hold both FTGS and VGI?
FTGS and VGI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTGS and VGI?
FTGS and VGI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 484 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTGS or VGI?
FTGS yields 0.09% while VGI yields 11.98%, so VGI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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