VABS vs VTI
Virtus Newfleet ABS/MBS 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 | VABS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $112M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.18% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 131 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +2.44% | +14.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.58% | +22.19% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.34% | +21.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.36% | +12.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 9, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
VABS vs VTI Performance
Virtus Newfleet ABS/MBS ETF (VABS) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VABS returned +3.58% while VTI returned +22.19%. Year to date, VABS is up 2.44% versus a gain of 14.22% for VTI.
Over three years, VABS compounded at +6.34% per year against +21.27% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +3.36% and +12.23% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.14% annualized vs +3.21%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 2.1% for VABS. 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 -7.1% for VABS 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 0.38. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VABS charges 0.39% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $3 annually, a gap of $36 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VABS currently yields 5.18% against 1.07% for VTI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VABS or VTI?
VABS has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $36 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VABS or VTI?
Over the past year VABS returned +3.58% vs +22.19% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), VABS annualized +3.21% vs +8.14% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VABS or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 2.1% for VABS. Worst drawdown: VABS -7.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both VABS and VTI?
VABS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.38, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, VABS or VTI?
VABS yields 5.18% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VABS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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