FGSM vs VTI
FGSM vs VTI
Frontier Asset Global Small Cap Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. FGSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FGSM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.82% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $50M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.28% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +18.16% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.48% | +24.23% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.73% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.24% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Frontier Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 19, 2024 | May 24, 2001 |
FGSM vs VTI Performance
Frontier Asset Global Small Cap Equity ETF (FGSM) is a ETF from Frontier Asset Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FGSM returned +31.48% while VTI returned +24.23%. Year to date, FGSM is up 18.16% versus a gain of 13.57% for VTI.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 11.8% for FGSM. 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 -17.7% for FGSM 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FGSM charges 0.82% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $82 vs $3 annually, a gap of $79 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FGSM currently yields 1.28% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FGSM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2789 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, FGSM or VTI?
FGSM has an expense ratio of 0.82% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $79 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FGSM or VTI?
Over the past year FGSM returned +31.48% vs +24.23% for VTI, so FGSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FGSM annualized +25.70% vs +8.12% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FGSM or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 11.8% for FGSM. Worst drawdown: FGSM -17.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FGSM and VTI?
FGSM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FGSM and VTI?
FGSM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2789 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FGSM or VTI?
FGSM yields 1.28% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FGSM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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