MSMR vs VTI
McElhenny Sheffield Managed Risk 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 | MSMR | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.06% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $183M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.83% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.36% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.35% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.49% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Aptus Capital Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 16, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
MSMR vs VTI Performance
McElhenny Sheffield Managed Risk ETF (MSMR) is a ETF from Aptus Capital Advisors and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSMR returned +8.35% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, MSMR is up 1.36% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, MSMR compounded at +13.49% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, MSMR has the edge at +8.40% annualized vs +8.13%. 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 10.4% for MSMR. 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 -14.9% for MSMR 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 0.61. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSMR charges 1.06% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $106 vs $3 annually, a gap of $103 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSMR currently yields 1.83% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MSMR and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2788 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, MSMR or VTI?
MSMR has an expense ratio of 1.06% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $103 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSMR or VTI?
Over the past year MSMR returned +8.35% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MSMR annualized +8.40% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSMR or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 10.4% for MSMR. Worst drawdown: MSMR -14.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MSMR and VTI?
MSMR and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.61, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSMR and VTI?
MSMR and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2788 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSMR or VTI?
MSMR yields 1.83% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MSMR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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