MGF vs VTI
MGF vs VTI
Aberdeen Government Markets Income Fund vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MGF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | - | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $99M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.50% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 456 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -1.59% | +13.39% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.08% | +23.21% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.83% | +20.65% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.18% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 28, 1987 | May 24, 2001 |
MGF vs VTI Performance
Aberdeen Government Markets Income Fund (MGF) is a ETF from Aberdeen Asset Management and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MGF returned -1.08% while VTI returned +23.21%. Year to date, MGF is down 1.59% versus a gain of 13.39% for VTI.
Over three years, MGF compounded at +3.83% per year against +20.65% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are -1.18% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 25-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.11% annualized vs -1.29%. 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 8.1% for MGF. 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 -55.5% for MGF 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 0.10. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Holdings Overlap
MGF and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2961 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performed better, MGF or VTI?
Over the past year MGF returned -1.08% vs +23.21% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (25 years), MGF annualized -1.29% vs +8.11% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MGF or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 8.1% for MGF. Worst drawdown: MGF -55.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MGF and VTI?
MGF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.10, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MGF and VTI?
MGF and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2961 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MGF or VTI?
MGF yields 7.50% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MGF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.