IMOM vs VTI
Alpha Architect International Quantitative Momentum ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. IMOM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IMOM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $155M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.24% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 56 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +9.15% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.21% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.29% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.49% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 22, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
IMOM vs VTI Performance
Alpha Architect International Quantitative Momentum ETF (IMOM) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IMOM returned +24.21% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, IMOM is up 9.15% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, IMOM compounded at +22.29% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.49% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +7.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IMOM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.1% 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 -45.7% for IMOM 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMOM charges 0.38% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $3 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMOM currently yields 2.24% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
IMOM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2834 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, IMOM or VTI?
IMOM has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMOM or VTI?
Over the past year IMOM returned +24.21% vs +22.19% for VTI, so IMOM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), IMOM annualized +7.05% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMOM or VTI?
IMOM has been the more volatile fund at 18.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: IMOM -45.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both IMOM and VTI?
IMOM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IMOM and VTI?
IMOM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2834 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMOM or VTI?
IMOM yields 2.24% while VTI yields 1.07%, so IMOM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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