SBB vs VTI
ProShares Short SmallCap600 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 | SBB | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $3M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.80% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -16.63% | +14.16% | |
| 1Y Return | -23.55% | +23.62% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -10.68% | +21.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -6.26% | +12.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -97.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 23, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
SBB vs VTI Performance
ProShares Short SmallCap600 (SBB) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SBB returned -23.55% while VTI returned +23.62%. Year to date, SBB is down 16.63% versus a gain of 14.16% for VTI.
Over three years, SBB compounded at -10.68% per year against +21.43% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -6.26% and +12.33% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs -14.66%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SBB has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% 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 -97.4% for SBB 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 -0.81. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SBB 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, SBB currently yields 3.80% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SBB or VTI?
SBB 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, SBB or VTI?
Over the past year SBB returned -23.55% vs +23.62% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SBB annualized -14.66% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SBB or VTI?
SBB has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SBB -97.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SBB and VTI?
SBB and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SBB or VTI?
SBB yields 3.80% while VTI yields 1.07%, so SBB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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