RFCI vs VTI
ALPS Dynamic Core Income ETF 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 | RFCI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.51% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $15M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.54% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 47 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.24% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.95% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.85% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.38% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.3% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 13, 2016 | May 24, 2001 |
RFCI vs VTI Performance
ALPS Dynamic Core Income ETF (RFCI) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RFCI returned +1.95% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, RFCI is up 0.24% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, RFCI compounded at +4.85% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +1.38% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +1.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 4.3% for RFCI. 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 -13.2% for RFCI 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFCI charges 0.51% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $51 vs $3 annually, a gap of $48 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RFCI currently yields 4.54% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
RFCI and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2821 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, RFCI or VTI?
RFCI has an expense ratio of 0.51% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $48 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RFCI or VTI?
Over the past year RFCI returned +1.95% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), RFCI annualized +1.08% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFCI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 4.3% for RFCI. Worst drawdown: RFCI -13.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both RFCI and VTI?
RFCI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RFCI and VTI?
RFCI and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2821 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFCI or VTI?
RFCI yields 4.54% while VTI yields 1.07%, so RFCI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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