GDMA vs VTI
Gadsden Dynamic Multi-Asset 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 | GDMA | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $240M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.53% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 21 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +9.40% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.30% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.06% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.58% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Gadsden Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 14, 2018 | May 24, 2001 |
GDMA vs VTI Performance
Gadsden Dynamic Multi-Asset ETF (GDMA) is a ETF from Gadsden Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GDMA returned +19.30% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, GDMA is up 9.40% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, GDMA compounded at +15.06% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.58% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, GDMA has the edge at +9.06% annualized vs +8.07%. 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 9.9% for GDMA. 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 -16.7% for GDMA 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GDMA charges 0.75% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $3 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GDMA currently yields 2.53% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
GDMA and VTI share 4 holdings out of 2802 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GDMA or VTI?
GDMA has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GDMA or VTI?
Over the past year GDMA returned +19.30% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), GDMA annualized +9.06% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GDMA or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 9.9% for GDMA. Worst drawdown: GDMA -16.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both GDMA and VTI?
GDMA and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GDMA and VTI?
GDMA and VTI share 4 common holdings with a 2.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2802 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GDMA or VTI?
GDMA yields 2.53% while VTI yields 1.07%, so GDMA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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