SAEF vs VTI
Schwab Ariel Opportunities 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 | SAEF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $19M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.33% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -12.00% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | -8.20% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.62% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
SAEF vs VTI Performance
Schwab Ariel Opportunities ETF (SAEF) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SAEF returned -8.20% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, SAEF is down 12.00% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Over three years, SAEF compounded at +2.62% per year against +21.43% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -0.25%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SAEF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.6% 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 -28.1% for SAEF 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAEF charges 0.59% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $3 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAEF currently yields 0.33% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
SAEF and VTI share 39 holdings out of 2802 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAEF or VTI?
SAEF has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAEF or VTI?
Over the past year SAEF returned -8.20% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SAEF annualized -0.25% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAEF or VTI?
SAEF has been the more volatile fund at 24.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SAEF -28.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SAEF and VTI?
SAEF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SAEF and VTI?
SAEF and VTI share 39 common holdings with a 0.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2802 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAEF or VTI?
SAEF yields 0.33% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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