PLTM vs VTI
GraniteShares Platinum Trust vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. PLTM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PLTM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $170M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -18.26% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.28% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.59% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.36% | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 40.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | GraniteShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 22, 2018 | May 24, 2001 |
PLTM vs VTI Performance
GraniteShares Platinum Trust (PLTM) is a ETF from GraniteShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PLTM returned +31.28% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, PLTM is down 18.26% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Over three years, PLTM compounded at +23.59% per year against +21.43% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +11.36% and +12.33% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -18.84%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PLTM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 40.4% 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 -94.2% for PLTM 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 0.24. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PLTM charges 0.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $3 annually, a gap of $47 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PLTM currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PLTM or VTI?
PLTM has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $47 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PLTM or VTI?
Over the past year PLTM returned +31.28% vs +23.62% for VTI, so PLTM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), PLTM annualized -18.84% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PLTM or VTI?
PLTM has been the more volatile fund at 40.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: PLTM -94.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PLTM and VTI?
PLTM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.24, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PLTM or VTI?
PLTM yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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