PCLG vs VTI
Polen Focus Growth 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 | PCLG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $88M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.04% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 26 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -5.53% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | -7.71% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Polen Capital | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 30, 2025 | May 24, 2001 |
PCLG vs VTI Performance
Polen Focus Growth ETF (PCLG) is a ETF from Polen Capital and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PCLG returned -7.71% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, PCLG is down 5.53% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -23.8% for PCLG and -56.6% for VTI. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PCLG charges 0.49% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $3 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PCLG currently yields 0.04% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
PCLG and VTI share 22 holdings out of 2792 unique holdings combined, representing a 25.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PCLG or VTI?
PCLG has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PCLG or VTI?
Over the past year PCLG returned -7.71% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
What is the holdings overlap between PCLG and VTI?
PCLG and VTI share 22 common holdings with a 25.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2792 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PCLG or VTI?
PCLG yields 0.04% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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