FTSM vs VTI
FTSM vs VTI
First Trust Enhanced Short Maturity 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 | FTSM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $6.5B | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.14% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 634 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.68% | +11.83% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.52% | +21.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.66% | +20.40% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.51% | +11.96% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.4% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 5, 2014 | May 24, 2001 |
FTSM vs VTI Performance
First Trust Enhanced Short Maturity ETF (FTSM) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FTSM returned +3.52% while VTI returned +21.79%. Year to date, FTSM is up 1.68% versus a gain of 11.83% for VTI.
Over three years, FTSM compounded at +4.66% per year against +20.40% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +3.51% and +11.96% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.06% annualized vs +1.45%. 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 1.2% for FTSM. 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 -5.4% for FTSM 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 0.27. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTSM charges 0.29% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $3 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTSM currently yields 4.14% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
FTSM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 3174 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, FTSM or VTI?
FTSM has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTSM or VTI?
Over the past year FTSM returned +3.52% vs +21.79% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FTSM annualized +1.45% vs +8.06% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTSM or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 1.2% for FTSM. Worst drawdown: FTSM -5.4% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both FTSM and VTI?
FTSM and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.27, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTSM and VTI?
FTSM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3174 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTSM or VTI?
FTSM yields 4.14% while VTI yields 1.07%, so FTSM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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