MFEM vs VTI
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MFEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $156M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.39% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 701 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +21.80% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.81% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.43% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.97% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | PIMCO (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 31, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
MFEM vs VTI Performance
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (MFEM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFEM returned +33.81% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, MFEM is up 21.80% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, MFEM compounded at +20.43% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.97% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +6.84%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MFEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.7% 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 -45.3% for MFEM 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
MFEM charges 0.49% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $3 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFEM currently yields 2.39% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MFEM and VTI share 1 holdings out of 3289 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MFEM | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| FN | 0.36% | 0.03% | 0.33% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MFEM or VTI?
MFEM has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFEM or VTI?
Over the past year MFEM returned +33.81% vs +22.35% for VTI, so MFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MFEM annualized +6.84% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFEM or VTI?
MFEM has been the more volatile fund at 17.7% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MFEM -45.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MFEM and VTI?
MFEM 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 MFEM and VTI?
MFEM and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3289 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFEM or VTI?
MFEM yields 2.39% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MFEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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