NSI vs VTI
National Security Emerging Markets Index ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. NSI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | NSI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $42M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.23% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 105 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +10.73% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.10% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | National Security Index | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 6, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
NSI vs VTI Performance
National Security Emerging Markets Index ETF (NSI) is a ETF from National Security Index and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NSI returned +28.10% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, NSI is up 10.73% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 13.0% for NSI. 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 -16.6% for NSI 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NSI 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, NSI currently yields 1.23% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
NSI and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2885 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in NSI | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| FN | 0.64% | 0.03% | 0.61% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NSI or VTI?
NSI 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, NSI or VTI?
Over the past year NSI returned +28.10% vs +21.39% for VTI, so NSI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), NSI annualized +20.33% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NSI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 13.0% for NSI. Worst drawdown: NSI -16.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both NSI and VTI?
NSI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NSI and VTI?
NSI and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2885 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NSI or VTI?
NSI yields 1.23% while VTI yields 1.07%, so NSI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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