JHI vs VTI
JHI vs VTI
John Hancock Investors Trust 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 | JHI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.35% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $130M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.58% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 435 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.75% | +11.83% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.57% | +21.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.51% | +20.40% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.89% | +11.96% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.0% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | John Hancock Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 29, 1971 | May 24, 2001 |
JHI vs VTI Performance
John Hancock Investors Trust (JHI) is a ETF from John Hancock Investment Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JHI returned +3.57% while VTI returned +21.79%. Year to date, JHI is up 1.75% versus a gain of 11.83% for VTI.
Over three years, JHI compounded at +9.51% per year against +20.40% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +0.89% and +11.96% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.06% annualized vs -0.07%. 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 13.0% for JHI. 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 -58.5% for JHI 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JHI charges 2.35% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $235 vs $3 annually, a gap of $232 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JHI currently yields 8.58% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
JHI and VTI share 0 holdings out of 3100 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, JHI or VTI?
JHI has an expense ratio of 2.35% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $232 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JHI or VTI?
Over the past year JHI returned +3.57% vs +21.79% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), JHI annualized -0.07% vs +8.06% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JHI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 13.0% for JHI. Worst drawdown: JHI -58.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both JHI and VTI?
JHI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JHI and VTI?
JHI and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3100 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JHI or VTI?
JHI yields 8.58% while VTI yields 1.07%, so JHI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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