VGI vs VTI
VGI vs VTI
Virtus Global Multi-Sector Income Fund 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 | VGI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.74% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $88M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.98% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 646 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -0.31% | +13.92% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.99% | +24.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.01% | +20.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.79% | +12.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.1% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -63.3% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2012 | May 24, 2001 |
VGI vs VTI Performance
Virtus Global Multi-Sector Income Fund (VGI) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGI returned +3.99% while VTI returned +24.07%. Year to date, VGI is down 0.31% versus a gain of 13.92% for VTI.
Over three years, VGI compounded at +11.01% per year against +20.88% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +1.79% and +12.47% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.13% annualized vs -2.50%. 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 14.1% for VGI. 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 -63.3% for VGI 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
VGI charges 1.74% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $174 vs $3 annually, a gap of $171 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VGI currently yields 11.98% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
VGI and VTI share 0 holdings out of 3217 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, VGI or VTI?
VGI has an expense ratio of 1.74% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $171 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGI or VTI?
Over the past year VGI returned +3.99% vs +24.07% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), VGI annualized -2.50% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.1% for VGI. Worst drawdown: VGI -63.3% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both VGI and VTI?
VGI 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 VGI and VTI?
VGI and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3217 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGI or VTI?
VGI yields 11.98% while VTI yields 1.07%, so VGI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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