MJ vs VTI
Amplify Alternative Harvest 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 | MJ | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $99M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.33% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -17.85% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -16.05% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -7.86% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -32.02% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 50.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -95.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Amplify ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 3, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
MJ vs VTI Performance
Amplify Alternative Harvest ETF (MJ) is a ETF from Amplify ETFs and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MJ returned -16.05% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, MJ is down 17.85% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, MJ compounded at -7.86% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -32.02% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -17.29%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MJ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 50.5% 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 -95.8% for MJ 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MJ charges 0.75% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $3 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MJ currently yields 2.33% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MJ and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2793 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, MJ or VTI?
MJ has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MJ or VTI?
Over the past year MJ returned -16.05% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), MJ annualized -17.29% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MJ or VTI?
MJ has been the more volatile fund at 50.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MJ -95.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MJ and VTI?
MJ and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MJ and VTI?
MJ and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2793 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MJ or VTI?
MJ yields 2.33% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MJ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.