SDD vs VTI
ProShares UltraShort 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 | SDD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $1M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.58% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 4 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -33.36% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | -45.42% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -25.63% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -17.59% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 38.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 23, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
SDD vs VTI Performance
ProShares UltraShort SmallCap600 (SDD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SDD returned -45.42% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, SDD is down 33.36% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, SDD compounded at -25.63% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -17.59% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs -29.73%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SDD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 38.8% 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 -100.0% for SDD 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 -0.86. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SDD 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, SDD currently yields 6.58% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SDD or VTI?
SDD 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, SDD or VTI?
Over the past year SDD returned -45.42% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SDD annualized -29.73% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SDD or VTI?
SDD has been the more volatile fund at 38.8% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SDD -100.0% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SDD and VTI?
SDD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SDD or VTI?
SDD yields 6.58% while VTI yields 1.07%, so SDD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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