GBTC vs VTI
Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GBTC | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $8.4B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -14.98% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | -32.32% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +51.98% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.40% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 117.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -89.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Grayscale | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2013 | May 24, 2001 |
GBTC vs VTI Performance
Grayscale Bitcoin Trust ETF (GBTC) is a ETF from Grayscale and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GBTC returned -32.32% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, GBTC is down 14.98% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, GBTC compounded at +51.98% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.40% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, GBTC has the edge at +55.55% annualized vs +8.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GBTC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 117.5% 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 -89.9% for GBTC 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 0.24. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GBTC charges 1.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $150 vs $3 annually, a gap of $147 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GBTC currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GBTC or VTI?
GBTC has an expense ratio of 1.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $147 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GBTC or VTI?
Over the past year GBTC returned -32.32% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), GBTC annualized +55.55% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GBTC or VTI?
GBTC has been the more volatile fund at 117.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: GBTC -89.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GBTC and VTI?
GBTC and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.24, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, GBTC or VTI?
GBTC yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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