PFFR vs VTI
InfraCap REIT 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 | PFFR | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $120M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.29% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 107 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.91% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.01% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.44% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.90% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -54.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 7, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
PFFR vs VTI Performance
InfraCap REIT Preferred ETF (PFFR) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PFFR returned +3.01% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, PFFR is up 1.91% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, PFFR compounded at +8.44% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +0.90% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +0.55%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PFFR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 15.4% 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 -54.2% for PFFR 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PFFR charges 0.45% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $3 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PFFR currently yields 8.29% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
PFFR and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2790 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 PFFR | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AGNC | 0.17% | 0.02% | 0.15% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PFFR or VTI?
PFFR has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PFFR or VTI?
Over the past year PFFR returned +3.01% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), PFFR annualized +0.55% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PFFR or VTI?
PFFR has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: PFFR -54.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PFFR and VTI?
PFFR and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PFFR and VTI?
PFFR and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2790 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PFFR or VTI?
PFFR yields 8.29% while VTI yields 1.07%, so PFFR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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