IQDF vs VTI
FlexShares International Quality Dividend Index Fund vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. IQDF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IQDF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.47% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.1B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.04% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 264 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +17.42% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.70% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.82% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.59% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -47.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Flexshares Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 12, 2013 | May 24, 2001 |
IQDF vs VTI Performance
FlexShares International Quality Dividend Index Fund (IQDF) is a ETF from Flexshares Trust and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IQDF returned +29.70% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, IQDF is up 17.42% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, IQDF compounded at +23.82% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +11.59% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 15.0% for IQDF. 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 -47.3% for IQDF 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IQDF charges 0.47% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $47 vs $3 annually, a gap of $44 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IQDF currently yields 3.04% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
IQDF and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2971 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in IQDF | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ROP | 1.73% | 0.05% | 1.68% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IQDF or VTI?
IQDF has an expense ratio of 0.47% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $44 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IQDF or VTI?
Over the past year IQDF returned +29.70% vs +22.39% for VTI, so IQDF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), IQDF annualized +4.89% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IQDF or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 15.0% for IQDF. Worst drawdown: IQDF -47.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both IQDF and VTI?
IQDF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IQDF and VTI?
IQDF and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2971 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IQDF or VTI?
IQDF yields 3.04% while VTI yields 1.07%, so IQDF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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