MRGR vs VTI
ProShares Merger 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 | MRGR | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $16M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.26% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 50 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.88% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.42% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.31% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.65% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2012 | May 24, 2001 |
MRGR vs VTI Performance
ProShares Merger ETF (MRGR) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MRGR returned +7.42% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, MRGR is up 1.88% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, MRGR compounded at +7.31% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +3.65% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +1.98%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 8.3% for MRGR. 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 -22.5% for MRGR 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 0.11. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MRGR 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, MRGR currently yields 1.26% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MRGR and VTI share 23 holdings out of 2800 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MRGR or VTI?
MRGR 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, MRGR or VTI?
Over the past year MRGR returned +7.42% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MRGR annualized +1.98% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MRGR or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 8.3% for MRGR. Worst drawdown: MRGR -22.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MRGR and VTI?
MRGR and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.11, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MRGR and VTI?
MRGR and VTI share 23 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2800 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MRGR or VTI?
MRGR yields 1.26% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MRGR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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