SPD vs VTI
Simplify US Equity PLUS Downside Convexity 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 | SPD | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.53% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $104M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.97% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 14 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +9.68% | +13.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.43% | +23.31% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.32% | +21.17% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.90% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 3, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
SPD vs VTI Performance
Simplify US Equity PLUS Downside Convexity ETF (SPD) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SPD returned +14.43% while VTI returned +23.31%. Year to date, SPD is up 9.68% versus a gain of 13.87% for VTI.
Over three years, SPD compounded at +17.32% per year against +21.17% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +7.90% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, SPD has the edge at +10.95% annualized vs +8.13%. 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 14.2% for SPD. 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 -27.4% for SPD 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SPD charges 0.53% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $53 vs $3 annually, a gap of $50 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SPD currently yields 0.97% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
SPD and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2784 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SPD or VTI?
SPD has an expense ratio of 0.53% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $50 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SPD or VTI?
Over the past year SPD returned +14.43% vs +23.31% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), SPD annualized +10.95% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SPD or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.2% for SPD. Worst drawdown: SPD -27.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SPD and VTI?
SPD and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SPD and VTI?
SPD and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2784 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SPD or VTI?
SPD yields 0.97% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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