ISTM vs VTI
iShares Strategic Metals ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. ISTM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ISTM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.47% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $31M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 14.27% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 62 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +9.73% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +51.54% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +35.62% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 26, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
ISTM vs VTI Performance
iShares Strategic Metals ETF (ISTM) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ISTM returned +51.54% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, ISTM is up 9.73% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, ISTM compounded at +35.62% per year against +21.83% for VTI. Across the full 3-year window we track, ISTM has the edge at +35.62% annualized vs +8.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ISTM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% 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 -22.5% for ISTM 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 -0.06. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ISTM 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, ISTM currently yields 14.27% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ISTM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2789 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, ISTM or VTI?
ISTM 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, ISTM or VTI?
Over the past year ISTM returned +51.54% vs +22.35% for VTI, so ISTM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), ISTM annualized +35.62% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ISTM or VTI?
ISTM has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ISTM -22.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ISTM and VTI?
ISTM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.06, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ISTM and VTI?
ISTM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2789 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ISTM or VTI?
ISTM yields 14.27% while VTI yields 1.07%, so ISTM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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