SHLD vs VTI
Global X Defense Tech 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 | SHLD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $7.1B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.71% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 55 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +5.94% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.66% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +43.84% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 11, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
SHLD vs VTI Performance
Global X Defense Tech ETF (SHLD) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SHLD returned +13.66% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, SHLD is up 5.94% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, SHLD compounded at +43.84% per year against +21.27% for VTI. Across the full 3-year window we track, SHLD has the edge at +43.84% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SHLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.5% 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 -25.4% for SHLD 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 0.17. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SHLD charges 0.50% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $3 annually, a gap of $47 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SHLD currently yields 0.71% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
SHLD and VTI share 21 holdings out of 2804 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SHLD or VTI?
SHLD has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $47 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SHLD or VTI?
Over the past year SHLD returned +13.66% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), SHLD annualized +43.84% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SHLD or VTI?
SHLD has been the more volatile fund at 21.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SHLD -25.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SHLD and VTI?
SHLD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.17, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SHLD and VTI?
SHLD and VTI share 21 common holdings with a 1.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2804 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SHLD or VTI?
SHLD yields 0.71% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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