TRFM vs VTI
AAM Transformers ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. TRFM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | TRFM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $244M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.13% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 246 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +27.55% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +38.85% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +29.97% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Advisors Asset Management, Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 11, 2022 | May 24, 2001 |
TRFM vs VTI Performance
AAM Transformers ETF (TRFM) is a ETF from Advisors Asset Management, Inc. and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year TRFM returned +38.85% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, TRFM is up 27.55% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, TRFM compounded at +29.97% per year against +21.27% for VTI. Across the full 4-year window we track, TRFM has the edge at +26.66% annualized vs +8.14%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
TRFM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.2% 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 -28.4% for TRFM 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
TRFM charges 0.49% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $3 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, TRFM currently yields 0.13% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
TRFM and VTI share 156 holdings out of 2872 unique holdings combined, representing a 21.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, TRFM or VTI?
TRFM has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, TRFM or VTI?
Over the past year TRFM returned +38.85% vs +22.19% for VTI, so TRFM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), TRFM annualized +26.66% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, TRFM or VTI?
TRFM has been the more volatile fund at 24.2% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: TRFM -28.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both TRFM and VTI?
TRFM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between TRFM and VTI?
TRFM and VTI share 156 common holdings with a 21.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2872 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, TRFM or VTI?
TRFM yields 0.13% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VTI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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