ILDR vs VTI
First Trust Innovation Leaders ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. ILDR delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ILDR | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $323M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 80 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +19.64% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.98% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +30.93% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.72% | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.6% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
ILDR vs VTI Performance
First Trust Innovation Leaders ETF (ILDR) 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 ILDR returned +30.98% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, ILDR is up 19.64% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, ILDR compounded at +30.93% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +12.72% and +12.34% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, ILDR has the edge at +13.76% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ILDR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.6% compared with 15.4% 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 -44.6% for ILDR 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ILDR 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, ILDR currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ILDR and VTI share 62 holdings out of 2806 unique holdings combined, representing a 29.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ILDR or VTI?
ILDR 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, ILDR or VTI?
Over the past year ILDR returned +30.98% vs +22.43% for VTI, so ILDR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), ILDR annualized +13.76% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ILDR or VTI?
ILDR has been the more volatile fund at 23.6% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ILDR -44.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ILDR and VTI?
ILDR and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ILDR and VTI?
ILDR and VTI share 62 common holdings with a 29.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2806 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ILDR or VTI?
ILDR yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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