KAT vs VTI
Scharf 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 | KAT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $675M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.48% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 38 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +6.71% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.78% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Scharf Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 30, 2011 | May 24, 2001 |
KAT vs VTI Performance
Scharf ETF (KAT) is a ETF from Scharf Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KAT returned +7.78% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, KAT is up 6.71% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 12.6% for KAT. 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 -9.3% for KAT 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 0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KAT charges 0.75% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $3 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KAT currently yields 0.48% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
KAT and VTI share 26 holdings out of 2790 unique holdings combined, representing a 12.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KAT or VTI?
KAT has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KAT or VTI?
Over the past year KAT returned +7.78% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KAT or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 12.6% for KAT. Worst drawdown: KAT -9.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both KAT and VTI?
KAT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KAT and VTI?
KAT and VTI share 26 common holdings with a 12.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2790 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KAT or VTI?
KAT yields 0.48% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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