HELX vs VTI
Franklin Genomic Advancements ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. HELX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HELX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $31M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 65 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +16.35% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +44.57% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.36% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -4.54% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 25, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
HELX vs VTI Performance
Franklin Genomic Advancements ETF (HELX) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HELX returned +44.57% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, HELX is up 16.35% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, HELX compounded at +12.36% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -4.54% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, HELX has the edge at +9.29% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HELX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 25.2% 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 -58.8% for HELX 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HELX charges 0.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $3 annually, a gap of $47 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HELX currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
HELX and VTI share 50 holdings out of 2803 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HELX or VTI?
HELX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $47 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HELX or VTI?
Over the past year HELX returned +44.57% vs +21.39% for VTI, so HELX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), HELX annualized +9.29% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HELX or VTI?
HELX has been the more volatile fund at 25.2% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: HELX -58.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HELX and VTI?
HELX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HELX and VTI?
HELX and VTI share 50 common holdings with a 3.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2803 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HELX or VTI?
HELX yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.