MFSI vs VTI
MFS Active International 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 | MFSI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.2B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.75% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 97 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +8.52% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.68% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
MFSI vs VTI Performance
MFS Active International ETF (MFSI) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFSI returned +16.68% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, MFSI is up 8.52% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 10.1% for MFSI. 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 -13.7% for MFSI 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFSI charges 0.59% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $3 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFSI currently yields 0.75% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MFSI and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2878 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, MFSI or VTI?
MFSI has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFSI or VTI?
Over the past year MFSI returned +16.68% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MFSI annualized +18.35% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFSI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 10.1% for MFSI. Worst drawdown: MFSI -13.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MFSI and VTI?
MFSI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFSI and VTI?
MFSI and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2878 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFSI or VTI?
MFSI yields 0.75% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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