PLTA vs VTI
ProShares Ultra PLTR 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 | PLTA | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $7M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -28.18% | +12.74% | |
| 1Y Return | -35.52% | +20.66% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +11.52% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 141.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 8, 2025 | May 24, 2001 |
PLTA vs VTI Performance
ProShares Ultra PLTR ETF (PLTA) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PLTA returned -35.52% while VTI returned +20.66%. Year to date, PLTA is down 28.18% versus a gain of 12.74% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PLTA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 141.6% 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 -80.0% for PLTA 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 0.13. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PLTA charges 0.95% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $3 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PLTA currently yields 3.98% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PLTA or VTI?
PLTA has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PLTA or VTI?
Over the past year PLTA returned -35.52% vs +20.66% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PLTA or VTI?
PLTA has been the more volatile fund at 141.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: PLTA -80.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PLTA and VTI?
PLTA and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.13, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PLTA or VTI?
PLTA yields 3.98% while VTI yields 1.07%, so PLTA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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