MAXJ vs VTI
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Jun 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 | MAXJ | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $154M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.74% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +4.33% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.15% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -6.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 28, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
MAXJ vs VTI Performance
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Jun ETF (MAXJ) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MAXJ returned +6.15% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, MAXJ is up 4.33% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 4.3% for MAXJ. 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 -6.3% for MAXJ 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MAXJ charges 0.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $3 annually, a gap of $47 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MAXJ currently yields 0.74% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MAXJ and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2785 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MAXJ or VTI?
MAXJ has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $47 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MAXJ or VTI?
Over the past year MAXJ returned +6.15% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MAXJ annualized +8.02% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MAXJ or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 4.3% for MAXJ. Worst drawdown: MAXJ -6.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MAXJ and VTI?
MAXJ and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MAXJ and VTI?
MAXJ and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2785 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MAXJ or VTI?
MAXJ yields 0.74% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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