PPLT vs VTI
abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. PPLT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PPLT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.9B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -18.51% | +14.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.04% | +24.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.83% | +21.12% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.65% | +12.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -70.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 8, 2010 | May 24, 2001 |
PPLT vs VTI Performance
abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF (PPLT) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PPLT returned +30.04% while VTI returned +24.16%. Year to date, PPLT is down 18.51% versus a gain of 14.20% for VTI.
Over three years, PPLT compounded at +23.83% per year against +21.12% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +11.65% and +12.37% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -0.02%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PPLT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.5% 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 -70.7% for PPLT 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 0.41. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PPLT charges 0.60% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $3 annually, a gap of $57 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PPLT currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PPLT or VTI?
PPLT has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $57 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PPLT or VTI?
Over the past year PPLT returned +30.04% vs +24.16% for VTI, so PPLT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), PPLT annualized -0.02% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PPLT or VTI?
PPLT has been the more volatile fund at 23.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: PPLT -70.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PPLT and VTI?
PPLT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.41, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PPLT or VTI?
PPLT yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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