FLTB vs VTI
FLTB vs VTI
Fidelity Limited Term Bond 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 | FLTB | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $408M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.76% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 937 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.16% | +13.92% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.40% | +24.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.54% | +20.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.29% | +12.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 128.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -73.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 6, 2014 | May 24, 2001 |
FLTB vs VTI Performance
Fidelity Limited Term Bond ETF (FLTB) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FLTB returned +3.40% while VTI returned +24.07%. Year to date, FLTB is up 1.16% versus a gain of 13.92% for VTI.
Over three years, FLTB compounded at +5.54% per year against +20.88% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +2.29% and +12.47% respectively. Across the full 23-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +7.74%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLTB has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 128.3% 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 -73.5% for FLTB 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 0.07. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLTB 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, FLTB currently yields 4.76% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FLTB and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2799 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FLTB | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SATS | 0.04% | 0.02% | 0.02% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLTB or VTI?
FLTB 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, FLTB or VTI?
Over the past year FLTB returned +3.40% vs +24.07% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (23 years), FLTB annualized +7.74% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLTB or VTI?
FLTB has been the more volatile fund at 128.3% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: FLTB -73.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FLTB and VTI?
FLTB and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.07, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLTB and VTI?
FLTB and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2799 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLTB or VTI?
FLTB yields 4.76% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FLTB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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