MEM vs VTI
Matthews Emerging Markets Equity Active ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $53M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.88% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 79 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +18.75% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.92% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.20% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Matthews Asia Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 13, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
MEM vs VTI Performance
Matthews Emerging Markets Equity Active ETF (MEM) is a ETF from Matthews Asia Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MEM returned +37.92% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, MEM is up 18.75% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, MEM compounded at +21.20% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, MEM has the edge at +18.31% annualized vs +8.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.0% 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 -19.1% for MEM 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MEM charges 0.79% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $3 annually, a gap of $76 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MEM currently yields 2.88% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MEM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2855 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, MEM or VTI?
MEM has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $76 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MEM or VTI?
Over the past year MEM returned +37.92% vs +23.31% for VTI, so MEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), MEM annualized +18.31% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MEM or VTI?
MEM has been the more volatile fund at 18.0% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MEM -19.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MEM and VTI?
MEM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MEM and VTI?
MEM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2855 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MEM or VTI?
MEM yields 2.88% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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