Quick Verdict

VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.

Lower Fees: VXUSHigher Returns: VXUSMore Diversified: VXUS

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricAETHVXUSWinner
Expense Ratio0.89%0.05%
AUM$5M$156.5B
Dividend Yield2.97%2.60%
Holdings28,747
YTD Return-15.94%+14.57%
1Y Return-37.64%+27.82%
3Y Return (annualized)-+19.27%
5Y Return (annualized)-+9.28%
Volatility (annualized)63.0%15.1%
Max Drawdown-51.1%-39.9%
Fund FamilyBitwiseVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionSep 29, 2023Jan 26, 2011

AETH vs VXUS Performance

Bitwise Trendwise Ether and Treasuries Rotation Strategy ETF (AETH) is a ETF from Bitwise and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AETH returned -37.64% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, AETH is down 15.94% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

AETH has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 63.0% 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 -51.1% for AETH 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 0.16. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.

Fees and Cost Over Time

AETH charges 0.89% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $89 vs $5 annually, a gap of $84 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AETH currently yields 2.97% against 2.60% for VXUS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, AETH or VXUS?

AETH has an expense ratio of 0.89% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $84 per year of difference.

Which performed better, AETH or VXUS?

Over the past year AETH returned -37.64% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), AETH annualized +15.97% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, AETH or VXUS?

AETH has been the more volatile fund at 63.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: AETH -51.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.

Should I hold both AETH and VXUS?

AETH and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.16, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

Which pays a higher dividend, AETH or VXUS?

AETH yields 2.97% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so AETH currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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