HOLD vs VTI
Harbor Alpha Layering ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HOLD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | - | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | - | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 24 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +4.37% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.89% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 13, 2025 | May 24, 2001 |
HOLD vs VTI Performance
Harbor Alpha Layering ETF (HOLD) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HOLD returned +13.89% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, HOLD is up 4.37% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HOLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.8% 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 -9.5% for HOLD 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HOLD charges 0.70% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $3 annually, a gap of $67 per year that compounds over a long holding period.
Holdings Overlap
HOLD and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2784 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, HOLD or VTI?
HOLD has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $67 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HOLD or VTI?
Over the past year HOLD returned +13.89% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HOLD or VTI?
HOLD has been the more volatile fund at 15.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: HOLD -9.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HOLD and VTI?
HOLD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HOLD and VTI?
HOLD and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2784 unique securities.
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