IGLD vs VTI
FT Vest Gold Strategy Target Income 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 | IGLD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $547M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 21.43% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -6.20% | +13.67% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.29% | +22.17% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.91% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.63% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 2, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
IGLD vs VTI Performance
FT Vest Gold Strategy Target Income ETF (IGLD) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IGLD returned +15.29% while VTI returned +22.17%. Year to date, IGLD is down 6.20% versus a gain of 13.67% for VTI.
Over three years, IGLD compounded at +20.91% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +12.63% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, IGLD has the edge at +11.84% annualized vs +8.11%. 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 13.8% for IGLD. 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 -28.1% for IGLD 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 0.19. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IGLD charges 0.85% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $3 annually, a gap of $82 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IGLD currently yields 21.43% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IGLD or VTI?
IGLD has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $82 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IGLD or VTI?
Over the past year IGLD returned +15.29% vs +22.17% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), IGLD annualized +11.84% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IGLD or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 13.8% for IGLD. Worst drawdown: IGLD -28.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both IGLD and VTI?
IGLD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.19, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, IGLD or VTI?
IGLD yields 21.43% while VTI yields 1.07%, so IGLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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