MUNC vs VTI
Northern Trust 2045 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder 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 | MUNC | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $8M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.50% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 151 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -0.13% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.70% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Northern Trust Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 28, 2025 | May 24, 2001 |
MUNC vs VTI Performance
Northern Trust 2045 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETF (MUNC) is a ETF from Northern Trust Asset Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MUNC returned +3.70% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, MUNC is down 0.13% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 4.6% for MUNC. 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 -3.2% for MUNC 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
MUNC charges 0.18% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $3 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MUNC currently yields 2.50% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MUNC and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2811 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, MUNC or VTI?
MUNC has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MUNC or VTI?
Over the past year MUNC returned +3.70% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MUNC or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 4.6% for MUNC. Worst drawdown: MUNC -3.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MUNC and VTI?
MUNC 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 MUNC and VTI?
MUNC and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2811 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MUNC or VTI?
MUNC yields 2.50% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MUNC currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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