NSCS vs VTI
Nuveen Small Cap Select ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | NSCS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.86% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $7M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.31% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 82 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -6.06% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.63% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.00% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 4, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
NSCS vs VTI Performance
Nuveen Small Cap Select ETF (NSCS) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NSCS returned +4.63% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, NSCS is down 6.06% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, NSCS compounded at +10.00% per year against +21.83% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +1.72%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NSCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -30.6% for NSCS 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NSCS charges 0.86% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $86 vs $3 annually, a gap of $83 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NSCS currently yields 0.31% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NSCS or VTI?
NSCS has an expense ratio of 0.86% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $83 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NSCS or VTI?
Over the past year NSCS returned +4.63% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), NSCS annualized +1.72% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NSCS or VTI?
NSCS has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: NSCS -30.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both NSCS and VTI?
NSCS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
Which pays a higher dividend, NSCS or VTI?
NSCS yields 0.31% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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