CMBS vs VTI
CMBS vs VTI
iShares CMBS 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 | CMBS | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $473M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.57% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 467 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.01% | +13.92% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.21% | +24.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.28% | +20.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.52% | +12.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.9% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 14, 2012 | May 24, 2001 |
CMBS vs VTI Performance
iShares CMBS ETF (CMBS) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CMBS returned +2.21% while VTI returned +24.07%. Year to date, CMBS is up 0.01% versus a gain of 13.92% for VTI.
Over three years, CMBS compounded at +5.28% per year against +20.88% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +0.52% and +12.47% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +0.82%. 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 3.9% for CMBS. 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 -16.4% for CMBS 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 0.28. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CMBS charges 0.25% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $3 annually, a gap of $22 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CMBS currently yields 3.57% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
CMBS and VTI share 0 holdings out of 3227 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CMBS or VTI?
CMBS has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $22 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CMBS or VTI?
Over the past year CMBS returned +2.21% vs +24.07% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), CMBS annualized +0.82% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CMBS or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 3.9% for CMBS. Worst drawdown: CMBS -16.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both CMBS and VTI?
CMBS and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.28, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CMBS and VTI?
CMBS and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3227 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CMBS or VTI?
CMBS yields 3.57% while VTI yields 1.07%, so CMBS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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