VCLN vs VTI
Virtus Duff & Phelps Clean Energy ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VCLN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VCLN | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $6M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.94% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +5.91% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.88% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.07% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.65% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 3, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
VCLN vs VTI Performance
Virtus Duff & Phelps Clean Energy ETF (VCLN) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VCLN returned +32.88% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, VCLN is up 5.91% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, VCLN compounded at +16.07% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +2.65% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +2.59%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VCLN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.4% 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 -45.7% for VCLN 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
VCLN charges 0.59% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $3 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VCLN currently yields 1.94% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
VCLN and VTI share 11 holdings out of 2817 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VCLN or VTI?
VCLN has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VCLN or VTI?
Over the past year VCLN returned +32.88% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VCLN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), VCLN annualized +2.59% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VCLN or VTI?
VCLN has been the more volatile fund at 27.4% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: VCLN -45.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both VCLN and VTI?
VCLN 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 VCLN and VTI?
VCLN and VTI share 11 common holdings with a 1.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2817 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VCLN or VTI?
VCLN yields 1.94% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VCLN currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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