RFEM vs VTI
First Trust RiverFront Dynamic Emerging Markets ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. RFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | RFEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $78M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.70% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 115 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +21.71% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +36.18% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.31% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.52% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 14, 2016 | May 24, 2001 |
RFEM vs VTI Performance
First Trust RiverFront Dynamic Emerging Markets ETF (RFEM) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RFEM returned +36.18% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, RFEM is up 21.71% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, RFEM compounded at +25.31% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.52% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, RFEM has the edge at +8.87% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RFEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.1% 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 -45.6% for RFEM 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFEM 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, RFEM currently yields 1.70% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
RFEM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2889 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, RFEM or VTI?
RFEM 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, RFEM or VTI?
Over the past year RFEM returned +36.18% vs +22.19% for VTI, so RFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), RFEM annualized +8.87% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFEM or VTI?
RFEM has been the more volatile fund at 17.1% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: RFEM -45.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both RFEM and VTI?
RFEM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RFEM and VTI?
RFEM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2889 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFEM or VTI?
RFEM yields 1.70% while VTI yields 1.07%, so RFEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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