USAI vs VTI
Pacer American Energy Infrastructure ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. USAI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | USAI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $133M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.12% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +26.13% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.21% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.18% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +22.30% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 28.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Pacer ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 12, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
USAI vs VTI Performance
Pacer American Energy Infrastructure ETF (USAI) is a ETF from Pacer ETFs and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USAI returned +26.21% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, USAI is up 26.13% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, USAI compounded at +25.18% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +22.30% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, USAI has the edge at +11.22% annualized vs +8.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USAI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 28.6% 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 -69.3% for USAI 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USAI charges 0.75% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $3 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USAI currently yields 4.12% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
USAI and VTI share 18 holdings out of 2804 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USAI or VTI?
USAI has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USAI or VTI?
Over the past year USAI returned +26.21% vs +21.39% for VTI, so USAI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), USAI annualized +11.22% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USAI or VTI?
USAI has been the more volatile fund at 28.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: USAI -69.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both USAI and VTI?
USAI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USAI and VTI?
USAI and VTI share 18 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2804 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USAI or VTI?
USAI yields 4.12% while VTI yields 1.07%, so USAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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