QAI vs VTI
NYLI Hedge Multi-Strategy Tracker 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 | QAI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.88% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1.0B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.40% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 129 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +8.45% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.11% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.89% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.37% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 25, 2009 | May 24, 2001 |
QAI vs VTI Performance
NYLI Hedge Multi-Strategy Tracker ETF (QAI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QAI returned +13.11% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, QAI is up 8.45% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, QAI compounded at +8.89% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +4.37% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +3.43%. 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 5.2% for QAI. 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 -14.9% for QAI 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QAI charges 0.88% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $88 vs $3 annually, a gap of $85 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QAI currently yields 1.40% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
QAI and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2820 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, QAI or VTI?
QAI has an expense ratio of 0.88% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $85 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QAI or VTI?
Over the past year QAI returned +13.11% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), QAI annualized +3.43% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QAI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 5.2% for QAI. Worst drawdown: QAI -14.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both QAI and VTI?
QAI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QAI and VTI?
QAI and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2820 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QAI or VTI?
QAI yields 1.40% while VTI yields 1.07%, so QAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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