AMZA vs VXUS
InfraCap MLP ETF 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AMZA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.72% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $466M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.16% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 86 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +25.50% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.89% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.96% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +23.78% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 39.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -96.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 1, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
AMZA vs VXUS Performance
InfraCap MLP ETF (AMZA) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AMZA returned +22.89% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, AMZA is up 25.50% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, AMZA compounded at +21.96% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +23.78% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -9.51%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AMZA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 39.9% 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 -96.7% for AMZA 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AMZA charges 1.72% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $172 vs $5 annually, a gap of $167 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AMZA currently yields 8.16% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
AMZA and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 7888 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AMZA or VXUS?
AMZA has an expense ratio of 1.72% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $167 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AMZA or VXUS?
Over the past year AMZA returned +22.89% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), AMZA annualized -9.51% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AMZA or VXUS?
AMZA has been the more volatile fund at 39.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: AMZA -96.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both AMZA and VXUS?
AMZA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AMZA and VXUS?
AMZA and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7888 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AMZA or VXUS?
AMZA yields 8.16% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so AMZA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.