PFFD vs VTI
Global X US Preferred 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 | PFFD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.23% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.1B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.43% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 228 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.15% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.80% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.06% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.70% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -31.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 11, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
PFFD vs VTI Performance
Global X US Preferred ETF (PFFD) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PFFD returned +2.80% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, PFFD is up 0.15% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, PFFD compounded at +5.06% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -0.70% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +0.22%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 10.6% for PFFD. 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 -31.3% for PFFD 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PFFD charges 0.23% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $23 vs $3 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PFFD currently yields 6.43% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
PFFD and VTI share 30 holdings out of 2813 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PFFD or VTI?
PFFD has an expense ratio of 0.23% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PFFD or VTI?
Over the past year PFFD returned +2.80% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), PFFD annualized +0.22% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PFFD or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 10.6% for PFFD. Worst drawdown: PFFD -31.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PFFD and VTI?
PFFD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PFFD and VTI?
PFFD and VTI share 30 common holdings with a 1.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2813 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PFFD or VTI?
PFFD yields 6.43% while VTI yields 1.07%, so PFFD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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