SAMT vs VTI
Strategas Macro Thematic 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 | SAMT | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $867M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.58% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 36 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +11.32% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.05% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.35% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Strategas Asset Management, LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 25, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
SAMT vs VTI Performance
Strategas Macro Thematic Opportunities ETF (SAMT) is a ETF from Strategas Asset Management, LLC and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SAMT returned +23.05% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, SAMT is up 11.32% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, SAMT compounded at +24.35% per year against +21.17% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, SAMT has the edge at +13.71% annualized vs +8.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SAMT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -20.6% for SAMT 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAMT charges 0.66% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $3 annually, a gap of $63 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAMT currently yields 0.58% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
SAMT and VTI share 37 holdings out of 2786 unique holdings combined, representing a 14.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAMT or VTI?
SAMT has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $63 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAMT or VTI?
Over the past year SAMT returned +23.05% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SAMT annualized +13.71% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAMT or VTI?
SAMT has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SAMT -20.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SAMT and VTI?
SAMT and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SAMT and VTI?
SAMT and VTI share 37 common holdings with a 14.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2786 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAMT or VTI?
SAMT yields 0.58% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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