MAGG vs VTI
MAGG vs VTI
Madison Aggregate 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 | MAGG | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.36% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $66M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.75% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 219 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -0.07% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.46% | +24.23% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.54% | +20.73% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.24% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.2% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.6% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Madison Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 28, 2023 | May 24, 2001 |
MAGG vs VTI Performance
Madison Aggregate Bond ETF (MAGG) is a ETF from Madison Funds and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MAGG returned +2.46% while VTI returned +24.23%. Year to date, MAGG is down 0.07% versus a gain of 13.57% for VTI.
Over three years, MAGG compounded at +4.54% per year against +20.73% for VTI. Across the full 3-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.12% annualized vs +4.54%. 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 5.2% for MAGG. 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 -4.6% for MAGG 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MAGG charges 0.36% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $36 vs $3 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MAGG currently yields 4.75% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MAGG and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2928 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, MAGG or VTI?
MAGG has an expense ratio of 0.36% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MAGG or VTI?
Over the past year MAGG returned +2.46% vs +24.23% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), MAGG annualized +4.54% vs +8.12% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MAGG or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 5.2% for MAGG. Worst drawdown: MAGG -4.6% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MAGG and VTI?
MAGG and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MAGG and VTI?
MAGG and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2928 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MAGG or VTI?
MAGG yields 4.75% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MAGG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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