ARKW vs VXUS
ARK Next Generation Internet 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 | ARKW | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.76% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.72% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 44 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.17% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.32% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +39.28% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.74% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 33.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 30, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ARKW vs VXUS Performance
ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW) is a ETF from Ark Invest and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ARKW returned -3.32% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, ARKW is up 2.17% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, ARKW compounded at +39.28% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +1.74% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, ARKW has the edge at +21.09% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ARKW has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 33.7% 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 -80.0% for ARKW 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
ARKW charges 0.76% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $76 vs $5 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ARKW currently yields 1.72% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ARKW and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7909 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in ARKW | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SHOP:CA | 4.30% | 0.33% | 3.97% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ARKW or VXUS?
ARKW has an expense ratio of 0.76% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ARKW or VXUS?
Over the past year ARKW returned -3.32% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), ARKW annualized +21.09% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ARKW or VXUS?
ARKW has been the more volatile fund at 33.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ARKW -80.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ARKW and VXUS?
ARKW 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 ARKW and VXUS?
ARKW and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7909 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ARKW or VXUS?
ARKW yields 1.72% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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