ARKF vs VXUS
ARK Blockchain & Fintech Innovation 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ARKF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $701M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.11% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 41 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -9.51% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -19.98% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +28.08% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.14% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 38.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -78.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 1, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ARKF vs VXUS Performance
ARK Blockchain & Fintech Innovation ETF (ARKF) is a ETF from Ark Invest and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ARKF returned -19.98% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, ARKF is down 9.51% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, ARKF compounded at +28.08% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -3.14% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, ARKF has the edge at +10.72% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ARKF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 38.0% 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 -78.6% for ARKF 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ARKF charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ARKF currently yields 0.11% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ARKF and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 7904 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ARKF or VXUS?
ARKF has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ARKF or VXUS?
Over the past year ARKF returned -19.98% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), ARKF annualized +10.72% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ARKF or VXUS?
ARKF has been the more volatile fund at 38.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ARKF -78.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ARKF and VXUS?
ARKF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ARKF and VXUS?
ARKF and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7904 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ARKF or VXUS?
ARKF yields 0.11% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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