ISCF vs VTI
iShares International Small-Cap Equity Factor 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 | ISCF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $652M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.73% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,188 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +10.79% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.81% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.19% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.05% | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 28, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
ISCF vs VTI Performance
iShares International Small-Cap Equity Factor ETF (ISCF) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ISCF returned +18.81% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, ISCF is up 10.79% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Over three years, ISCF compounded at +18.19% per year against +21.43% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.05% and +12.33% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +7.40%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ISCF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.1% 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 -43.6% for ISCF 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ISCF charges 0.24% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $3 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ISCF currently yields 3.73% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ISCF and VTI share 2 holdings out of 3792 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, ISCF or VTI?
ISCF has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ISCF or VTI?
Over the past year ISCF returned +18.81% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), ISCF annualized +7.40% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ISCF or VTI?
ISCF has been the more volatile fund at 16.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ISCF -43.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ISCF and VTI?
ISCF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ISCF and VTI?
ISCF and VTI share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3792 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ISCF or VTI?
ISCF yields 3.73% while VTI yields 1.07%, so ISCF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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