VSGX vs VTI
Vanguard ESG International Stock ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VSGX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VSGX offers more diversification with 6,636 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VSGX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.10% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $6.5B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.99% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 6,636 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +14.96% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.59% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.22% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.32% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 18, 2018 | May 24, 2001 |
VSGX vs VTI Performance
Vanguard ESG International Stock ETF (VSGX) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VSGX returned +24.59% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, VSGX is up 14.96% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, VSGX compounded at +20.22% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +8.32% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VSGX has the edge at +8.78% annualized vs +8.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VSGX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.3% 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 -33.1% for VSGX 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VSGX charges 0.10% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $10 vs $3 annually, a gap of $7 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VSGX currently yields 2.99% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
VSGX and VTI share 17 holdings out of 8898 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VSGX or VTI?
VSGX has an expense ratio of 0.10% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $7 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VSGX or VTI?
Over the past year VSGX returned +24.59% vs +22.35% for VTI, so VSGX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), VSGX annualized +8.78% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VSGX or VTI?
VSGX has been the more volatile fund at 16.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: VSGX -33.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both VSGX and VTI?
VSGX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VSGX and VTI?
VSGX and VTI share 17 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8898 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VSGX or VTI?
VSGX yields 2.99% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VSGX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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