JSML vs VTI
Janus Henderson Small Cap Growth Alpha ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. JSML delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | JSML | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $322M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.86% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 122 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +25.22% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.26% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.76% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.92% | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Janus Henderson Investors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2016 | May 24, 2001 |
JSML vs VTI Performance
Janus Henderson Small Cap Growth Alpha ETF (JSML) is a ETF from Janus Henderson Investors and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JSML returned +35.26% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, JSML is up 25.22% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, JSML compounded at +18.76% per year against +21.12% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.92% and +12.37% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, JSML has the edge at +13.70% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
JSML has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.0% 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 -39.6% for JSML 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JSML charges 0.30% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $3 annually, a gap of $27 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JSML currently yields 0.86% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
JSML and VTI share 93 holdings out of 2811 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, JSML or VTI?
JSML has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $27 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JSML or VTI?
Over the past year JSML returned +35.26% vs +24.16% for VTI, so JSML leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), JSML annualized +13.70% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JSML or VTI?
JSML has been the more volatile fund at 23.0% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: JSML -39.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both JSML and VTI?
JSML and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JSML and VTI?
JSML and VTI share 93 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2811 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JSML or VTI?
JSML yields 0.86% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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