LVOL vs VTI
American Century Low Volatility 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 | LVOL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $9M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.09% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 201 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -4.83% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.40% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.97% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | American Century Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 12, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
LVOL vs VTI Performance
American Century Low Volatility ETF (LVOL) is a ETF from American Century Investments and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LVOL returned +5.40% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, LVOL is down 4.83% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, LVOL compounded at +5.97% per year against +21.83% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +7.65%. 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 14.4% for LVOL. 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 -22.4% for LVOL 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 0.94. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LVOL charges 0.29% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $3 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LVOL currently yields 1.09% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LVOL or VTI?
LVOL has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LVOL or VTI?
Over the past year LVOL returned +5.40% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), LVOL annualized +7.65% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LVOL or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.4% for LVOL. Worst drawdown: LVOL -22.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both LVOL and VTI?
LVOL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.94, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
Which pays a higher dividend, LVOL or VTI?
LVOL yields 1.09% while VTI yields 1.07%, so LVOL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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