PSQ vs VTI
ProShares Short QQQ 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 | PSQ | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $799M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.56% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -15.51% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | -18.67% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -18.25% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -12.94% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.8% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -98.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2006 | May 24, 2001 |
PSQ vs VTI Performance
ProShares Short QQQ (PSQ) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PSQ returned -18.67% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, PSQ is down 15.51% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, PSQ compounded at -18.25% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -12.94% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs -17.32%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PSQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.8% 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 -98.4% for PSQ 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 -0.88. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PSQ 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, PSQ currently yields 4.56% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
PSQ and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2784 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PSQ or VTI?
PSQ 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, PSQ or VTI?
Over the past year PSQ returned -18.67% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), PSQ annualized -17.32% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PSQ or VTI?
PSQ has been the more volatile fund at 17.8% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: PSQ -98.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PSQ and VTI?
PSQ and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PSQ and VTI?
PSQ and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2784 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PSQ or VTI?
PSQ yields 4.56% while VTI yields 1.07%, so PSQ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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