PSTP vs VTI
Innovator Power Buffer Step Up Strategy 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 | PSTP | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.89% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $133M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +5.60% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.66% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.43% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 7, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
PSTP vs VTI Performance
Innovator Power Buffer Step Up Strategy ETF (PSTP) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PSTP returned +9.66% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, PSTP is up 5.60% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, PSTP compounded at +11.43% per year against +21.54% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, PSTP has the edge at +8.92% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 8.3% for PSTP. 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 -12.5% for PSTP 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 0.98. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PSTP charges 0.89% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $89 vs $3 annually, a gap of $86 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PSTP currently yields 0.00% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PSTP or VTI?
PSTP has an expense ratio of 0.89% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $86 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PSTP or VTI?
Over the past year PSTP returned +9.66% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), PSTP annualized +8.92% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PSTP or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 8.3% for PSTP. Worst drawdown: PSTP -12.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both PSTP and VTI?
PSTP and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.98, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
Which pays a higher dividend, PSTP or VTI?
PSTP yields 0.00% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.