AAPU vs VXUS
Direxion Daily AAPL Bull 2X ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. AAPU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AAPU | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.96% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $188M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.97% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +17.67% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +58.49% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +30.18% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 43.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 9, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
AAPU vs VXUS Performance
Direxion Daily AAPL Bull 2X ETF (AAPU) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AAPU returned +58.49% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, AAPU is up 17.67% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, AAPU compounded at +30.18% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, AAPU has the edge at +22.85% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AAPU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 43.9% compared with 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -58.6% for AAPU and -39.9% for VXUS. 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 0.32. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AAPU charges 0.96% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $96 vs $5 annually, a gap of $91 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AAPU currently yields 7.97% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
AAPU and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7867 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, AAPU or VXUS?
AAPU has an expense ratio of 0.96% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $91 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AAPU or VXUS?
Over the past year AAPU returned +58.49% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so AAPU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), AAPU annualized +22.85% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AAPU or VXUS?
AAPU has been the more volatile fund at 43.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: AAPU -58.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both AAPU and VXUS?
AAPU and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.32, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AAPU and VXUS?
AAPU and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7867 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AAPU or VXUS?
AAPU yields 7.97% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so AAPU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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