HLGE vs VTI
Hartford Longevity Economy 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 | HLGE | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.44% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $13M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.34% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 342 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +2.20% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.26% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.26% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 16, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
HLGE vs VTI Performance
Hartford Longevity Economy ETF (HLGE) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HLGE returned +5.26% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, HLGE is up 2.20% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, HLGE compounded at +12.26% per year against +21.83% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +7.02%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HLGE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -23.9% for HLGE 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 0.96. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HLGE charges 0.44% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $44 vs $3 annually, a gap of $41 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HLGE currently yields 1.34% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HLGE or VTI?
HLGE has an expense ratio of 0.44% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $41 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HLGE or VTI?
Over the past year HLGE returned +5.26% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), HLGE annualized +7.02% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HLGE or VTI?
HLGE has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: HLGE -23.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HLGE and VTI?
HLGE and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.96, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
Which pays a higher dividend, HLGE or VTI?
HLGE yields 1.34% while VTI yields 1.07%, so HLGE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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