ROBO vs VTI
ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. ROBO delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ROBO | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.1B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.37% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 79 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +14.47% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.36% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.70% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.71% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Robo Global | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 22, 2013 | May 24, 2001 |
ROBO vs VTI Performance
ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF (ROBO) is a ETF from Robo Global and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ROBO returned +30.36% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, ROBO is up 14.47% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, ROBO compounded at +15.70% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +4.71% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, ROBO has the edge at +9.68% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ROBO has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.5% 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 -43.6% for ROBO 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ROBO 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, ROBO currently yields 0.37% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
ROBO and VTI share 29 holdings out of 2837 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ROBO or VTI?
ROBO 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, ROBO or VTI?
Over the past year ROBO returned +30.36% vs +21.39% for VTI, so ROBO leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), ROBO annualized +9.68% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ROBO or VTI?
ROBO has been the more volatile fund at 21.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: ROBO -43.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both ROBO and VTI?
ROBO and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ROBO and VTI?
ROBO and VTI share 29 common holdings with a 5.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2837 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ROBO or VTI?
ROBO yields 0.37% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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