IMST vs VTI
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy 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 | IMST | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.98% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $6M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 252.16% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -32.44% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -70.05% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 48.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -75.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Bitwise | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 1, 2025 | May 24, 2001 |
IMST vs VTI Performance
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF (IMST) is a ETF from Bitwise and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, IMST is down 32.44% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IMST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 48.9% 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 -75.6% for IMST 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMST charges 0.98% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $98 vs $3 annually, a gap of $95 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMST currently yields 252.16% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IMST or VTI?
IMST has an expense ratio of 0.98% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $95 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMST or VTI?
Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), IMST annualized -51.17% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMST or VTI?
IMST has been the more volatile fund at 48.9% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: IMST -75.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both IMST and VTI?
IMST and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMST or VTI?
IMST yields 252.16% while VTI yields 1.07%, so IMST currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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