SMI vs VTI
HIP Sustainable Muni ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SMI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $11M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.83% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -3.75% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | -4.39% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -0.50% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | VanEck | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 8, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
SMI vs VTI Performance
HIP Sustainable Muni ETF (SMI) is a ETF from VanEck and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SMI returned -4.39% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, SMI is down 3.75% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, SMI compounded at -0.50% per year against +21.83% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs -3.15%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 6.6% for SMI. 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 -14.2% for SMI 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SMI charges 0.24% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $3 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SMI currently yields 2.83% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SMI or VTI?
SMI has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SMI or VTI?
Over the past year SMI returned -4.39% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), SMI annualized -3.15% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SMI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 6.6% for SMI. Worst drawdown: SMI -14.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SMI and VTI?
SMI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SMI or VTI?
SMI yields 2.83% while VTI yields 1.07%, so SMI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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