TESL vs VTI
Simplify Volt TSLA Revolution 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 | TESL | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.97% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $13M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 23.54% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -20.56% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | -38.68% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.77% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.09% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 54.9% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 28, 2020 | May 24, 2001 |
TESL vs VTI Performance
Simplify Volt TSLA Revolution ETF (TESL) 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 TESL returned -38.68% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, TESL is down 20.56% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, TESL compounded at +21.77% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.09% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +4.35%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
TESL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 54.9% compared with 15.4% 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 -69.1% for TESL 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
TESL charges 0.97% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $97 vs $3 annually, a gap of $94 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, TESL currently yields 23.54% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
TESL and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2783 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in TESL | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSLA | 24.06% | 1.63% | 22.43% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, TESL or VTI?
TESL has an expense ratio of 0.97% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $94 per year of difference.
Which performed better, TESL or VTI?
Over the past year TESL returned -38.68% vs +22.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), TESL annualized +4.35% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, TESL or VTI?
TESL has been the more volatile fund at 54.9% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: TESL -69.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both TESL and VTI?
TESL and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between TESL and VTI?
TESL and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2783 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, TESL or VTI?
TESL yields 23.54% while VTI yields 1.07%, so TESL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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