ISEP vs VTI
Innovator International Developed Power Buffer ETF - September 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 | ISEP | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $65M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +8.32% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.44% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.61% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.5% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 1, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
ISEP vs VTI Performance
Innovator International Developed Power Buffer ETF - September (ISEP) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ISEP returned +12.44% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, ISEP is up 8.32% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, ISEP compounded at +12.61% per year against +21.51% for VTI. Across the full 3-year window we track, ISEP has the edge at +12.61% annualized vs +8.16%. 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 7.5% for ISEP. 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 -7.4% for ISEP 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ISEP charges 0.85% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $3 annually, a gap of $82 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ISEP currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ISEP or VTI?
ISEP has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $82 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ISEP or VTI?
Over the past year ISEP returned +12.44% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), ISEP annualized +12.61% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ISEP or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 7.5% for ISEP. Worst drawdown: ISEP -7.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ISEP and VTI?
ISEP and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, ISEP or VTI?
ISEP yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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