USG vs VTI
USCF Gold Strategy Plus Income Fund vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. USG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | USG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $9M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 29.92% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 4 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -0.21% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.40% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.92% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | USCF Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 8, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
USG vs VTI Performance
USCF Gold Strategy Plus Income Fund (USG) is a ETF from USCF Investments and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USG returned +23.40% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, USG is down 0.21% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, USG compounded at +26.92% per year against +21.51% for VTI. Across the full 5-year window we track, USG has the edge at +17.34% annualized vs +8.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% 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 -24.9% for USG 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 0.15. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USG charges 0.45% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $3 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USG currently yields 29.92% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USG or VTI?
USG has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USG or VTI?
Over the past year USG returned +23.40% vs +22.39% for VTI, so USG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), USG annualized +17.34% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USG or VTI?
USG has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: USG -24.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both USG and VTI?
USG and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.15, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, USG or VTI?
USG yields 29.92% while VTI yields 1.07%, so USG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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