MSSS vs VTI
Monarch Select Subsector Index ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MSSS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MSSS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.42% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $150M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.28% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +19.58% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.49% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Monarch Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 12, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
MSSS vs VTI Performance
Monarch Select Subsector Index ETF (MSSS) is a ETF from Monarch Funds and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSSS returned +21.49% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, MSSS is up 19.58% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MSSS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.8% 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 -19.1% for MSSS 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSSS charges 1.42% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $142 vs $3 annually, a gap of $139 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSSS currently yields 0.28% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MSSS and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2797 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, MSSS or VTI?
MSSS has an expense ratio of 1.42% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $139 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSSS or VTI?
Over the past year MSSS returned +21.49% vs +21.39% for VTI, so MSSS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), MSSS annualized +16.24% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSSS or VTI?
MSSS has been the more volatile fund at 15.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MSSS -19.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MSSS and VTI?
MSSS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSSS and VTI?
MSSS and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2797 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSSS or VTI?
MSSS yields 0.28% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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