SZK vs VTI
ProShares UltraShort Consumer Staples 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 | SZK | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $4M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.79% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -18.93% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | -8.53% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -9.65% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -4.51% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.5% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | May 24, 2001 |
SZK vs VTI Performance
ProShares UltraShort Consumer Staples (SZK) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SZK returned -8.53% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, SZK is down 18.93% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, SZK compounded at -9.65% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -4.51% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs -20.73%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SZK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.5% 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 -99.5% for SZK 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 -0.78. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SZK 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, SZK currently yields 2.79% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SZK or VTI?
SZK 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, SZK or VTI?
Over the past year SZK returned -8.53% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), SZK annualized -20.73% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SZK or VTI?
SZK has been the more volatile fund at 27.5% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: SZK -99.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both SZK and VTI?
SZK and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of -0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SZK or VTI?
SZK yields 2.79% while VTI yields 1.07%, so SZK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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