LVHD vs VTI
Franklin U.S. Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF 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 | LVHD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.27% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $630M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.20% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 117 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +13.54% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.25% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.14% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.05% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 28, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
LVHD vs VTI Performance
Franklin U.S. Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF (LVHD) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LVHD returned +12.25% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, LVHD is up 13.54% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, LVHD compounded at +12.14% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +7.05% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +7.47%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 13.5% for LVHD. 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 -37.3% for LVHD 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
LVHD charges 0.27% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $27 vs $3 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LVHD currently yields 3.20% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
LVHD and VTI share 89 holdings out of 2812 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LVHD or VTI?
LVHD has an expense ratio of 0.27% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LVHD or VTI?
Over the past year LVHD returned +12.25% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), LVHD annualized +7.47% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LVHD or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 13.5% for LVHD. Worst drawdown: LVHD -37.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both LVHD and VTI?
LVHD 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 LVHD and VTI?
LVHD and VTI share 89 common holdings with a 6.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2812 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LVHD or VTI?
LVHD yields 3.20% while VTI yields 1.07%, so LVHD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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