MFDX vs VTI
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity 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 | MFDX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $471M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.88% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,300 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.33% | +14.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.27% | +22.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.53% | +21.93% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.71% | +12.34% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.9% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | PIMCO (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 31, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
MFDX vs VTI Performance
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor International Equity ETF (MFDX) is a ETF from PIMCO (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFDX returned +21.27% while VTI returned +22.43%. Year to date, MFDX is up 12.33% versus a gain of 14.82% for VTI.
Over three years, MFDX compounded at +19.53% per year against +21.93% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.71% and +12.34% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, MFDX has the edge at +8.19% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 14.9% for MFDX. 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 -39.1% for MFDX 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFDX charges 0.39% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $3 annually, a gap of $36 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFDX currently yields 2.88% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MFDX and VTI share 6 holdings out of 3731 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MFDX or VTI?
MFDX has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $36 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFDX or VTI?
Over the past year MFDX returned +21.27% vs +22.43% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MFDX annualized +8.19% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFDX or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.9% for MFDX. Worst drawdown: MFDX -39.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MFDX and VTI?
MFDX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFDX and VTI?
MFDX and VTI share 6 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3731 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFDX or VTI?
MFDX yields 2.88% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MFDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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