SDP vs VTI
ProShares UltraShort Utilities 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 | SDP | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $4M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.27% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -3.67% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | -4.71% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -20.74% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -14.96% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
SDP vs VTI Performance
ProShares UltraShort Utilities (SDP) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SDP returned -4.71% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, SDP is down 3.67% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, SDP compounded at -20.74% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -14.96% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs -24.73%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SDP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.4% 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 -99.8% for SDP 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 -0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SDP 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, SDP currently yields 4.27% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SDP or VTI?
SDP 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, SDP or VTI?
Over the past year SDP returned -4.71% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SDP annualized -24.73% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SDP or VTI?
SDP has been the more volatile fund at 30.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SDP -99.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SDP and VTI?
SDP and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SDP or VTI?
SDP yields 4.27% while VTI yields 1.07%, so SDP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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