LTL vs VTI
ProShares Ultra Communication Services vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LTL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $7M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.06% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -12.32% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.90% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +32.65% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.95% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 34.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 25, 2008 | May 24, 2001 |
LTL vs VTI Performance
ProShares Ultra Communication Services (LTL) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LTL returned -1.90% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, LTL is down 12.32% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, LTL compounded at +32.65% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +14.95% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 18-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +5.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LTL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 34.2% 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 -80.7% for LTL 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LTL charges 0.95% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $3 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LTL currently yields 1.06% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
LTL and VTI share 21 holdings out of 2789 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LTL or VTI?
LTL has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LTL or VTI?
Over the past year LTL returned -1.90% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (18 years), LTL annualized +5.80% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LTL or VTI?
LTL has been the more volatile fund at 34.2% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: LTL -80.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both LTL and VTI?
LTL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LTL and VTI?
LTL and VTI share 21 common holdings with a 8.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2789 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LTL or VTI?
LTL yields 1.06% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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