RECS vs VTI
Columbia Research Enhanced Core 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 | RECS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $5.9B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.03% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 368 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +9.84% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.96% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.95% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.38% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Columbia Threadneedle Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2019 | May 24, 2001 |
RECS vs VTI Performance
Columbia Research Enhanced Core ETF (RECS) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RECS returned +17.96% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, RECS is up 9.84% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, RECS compounded at +21.95% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +13.38% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +3.98%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RECS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -34.3% for RECS 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 0.95. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RECS charges 0.15% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $3 annually, a gap of $12 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RECS currently yields 1.03% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
RECS and VTI share 293 holdings out of 2854 unique holdings combined, representing a 40.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RECS or VTI?
RECS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $12 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RECS or VTI?
Over the past year RECS returned +17.96% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), RECS annualized +3.98% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RECS or VTI?
RECS has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: RECS -34.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both RECS and VTI?
RECS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.95, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between RECS and VTI?
RECS and VTI share 293 common holdings with a 40.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2854 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RECS or VTI?
RECS yields 1.03% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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