MUSI vs VTI
MUSI vs VTI
American Century Multisector Income 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 | MUSI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $244M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.51% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 374 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +0.82% | +13.92% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.65% | +24.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.24% | +20.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.03% | +12.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.9% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | American Century Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 29, 2021 | May 24, 2001 |
MUSI vs VTI Performance
American Century Multisector Income ETF (MUSI) is a ETF from American Century Investments and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MUSI returned +3.65% while VTI returned +24.07%. Year to date, MUSI is up 0.82% versus a gain of 13.92% for VTI.
Over three years, MUSI compounded at +6.24% per year against +20.88% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +2.03% and +12.47% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs +2.03%. 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 5.4% for MUSI. 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 -13.9% for MUSI 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MUSI charges 0.38% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $3 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MUSI currently yields 5.51% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MUSI and VTI share 1 holdings out of 2932 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MUSI | Weight in VTI | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0.44% | 0.32% | 0.12% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MUSI or VTI?
MUSI has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MUSI or VTI?
Over the past year MUSI returned +3.65% vs +24.07% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MUSI annualized +2.03% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MUSI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 5.4% for MUSI. Worst drawdown: MUSI -13.9% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MUSI and VTI?
MUSI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MUSI and VTI?
MUSI and VTI share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2932 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MUSI or VTI?
MUSI yields 5.51% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MUSI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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