AAVM vs VXUS
AAVM vs VXUS
Alpha Architect Global Factor Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. AAVM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AAVM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $25M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.58% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.80% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.75% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.93% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 2, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
AAVM vs VXUS Performance
Alpha Architect Global Factor Equity ETF (AAVM) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AAVM returned +29.80% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, AAVM is up 15.58% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, AAVM compounded at +17.75% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.93% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, AAVM has the edge at +5.28% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.9% for AAVM. 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 -34.7% for AAVM 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AAVM charges 0.38% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $5 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AAVM currently yields 1.80% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
AAVM and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7866 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, AAVM or VXUS?
AAVM has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AAVM or VXUS?
Over the past year AAVM returned +29.80% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so AAVM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), AAVM annualized +5.28% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AAVM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.9% for AAVM. Worst drawdown: AAVM -34.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both AAVM and VXUS?
AAVM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AAVM and VXUS?
AAVM and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AAVM or VXUS?
AAVM yields 1.80% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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