AGD vs VXUS
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AGD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $325M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.69% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 88 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.04% | +14.98% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.93% | +25.63% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.92% | +19.65% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.50% | +9.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
AGD vs VXUS Performance
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund (AGD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AGD returned +16.93% while VXUS returned +25.63%. Year to date, AGD is up 16.04% versus a gain of 14.98% for VXUS.
Over three years, AGD compounded at +22.92% per year against +19.65% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +10.50% and +9.30% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.87% annualized vs -3.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AGD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.7% 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 -88.3% for AGD 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AGD charges 1.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $135 vs $5 annually, a gap of $130 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AGD currently yields 11.69% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
AGD and VXUS share 28 holdings out of 7927 unique holdings combined, representing a 9.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AGD or VXUS?
AGD has an expense ratio of 1.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $130 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AGD or VXUS?
Over the past year AGD returned +16.93% vs +25.63% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), AGD annualized -3.13% vs +4.87% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AGD or VXUS?
AGD has been the more volatile fund at 23.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: AGD -88.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both AGD and VXUS?
AGD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AGD and VXUS?
AGD and VXUS share 28 common holdings with a 9.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7927 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AGD or VXUS?
AGD yields 11.69% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so AGD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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