LDSF vs VTI
LDSF vs VTI
First Trust Low Duration Strategic Focus 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 | LDSF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $161M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.62% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 8 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +1.23% | +13.39% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.42% | +23.21% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.17% | +20.65% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.44% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.3% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.7% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 2, 2019 | May 24, 2001 |
LDSF vs VTI Performance
First Trust Low Duration Strategic Focus ETF (LDSF) 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 LDSF returned +3.42% while VTI returned +23.21%. Year to date, LDSF is up 1.23% versus a gain of 13.39% for VTI.
Over three years, LDSF compounded at +5.17% per year against +20.65% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +2.44% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.11% annualized vs +1.72%. 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 3.3% for LDSF. 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 -8.7% for LDSF 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LDSF charges 0.77% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $3 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LDSF currently yields 4.62% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
LDSF and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2792 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, LDSF or VTI?
LDSF has an expense ratio of 0.77% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LDSF or VTI?
Over the past year LDSF returned +3.42% vs +23.21% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), LDSF annualized +1.72% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LDSF or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 3.3% for LDSF. Worst drawdown: LDSF -8.7% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both LDSF and VTI?
LDSF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LDSF and VTI?
LDSF and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2792 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LDSF or VTI?
LDSF yields 4.62% while VTI yields 1.07%, so LDSF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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