ASEA vs VXUS
Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. ASEA delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ASEA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $103M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.68% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 44 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +19.87% | +14.72% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.81% | +26.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.29% | +19.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.48% | +9.16% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -49.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 16, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ASEA vs VXUS Performance
Global X FTSE Southeast Asia ETF (ASEA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ASEA returned +30.81% while VXUS returned +26.79%. Year to date, ASEA is up 19.87% versus a gain of 14.72% for VXUS.
Over three years, ASEA compounded at +17.29% per year against +19.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.48% and +9.16% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.85% annualized vs +3.65%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ASEA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -49.0% for ASEA 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ASEA charges 0.65% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $5 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ASEA currently yields 3.68% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ASEA and VXUS share 18 holdings out of 8116 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ASEA or VXUS?
ASEA has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ASEA or VXUS?
Over the past year ASEA returned +30.81% vs +26.79% for VXUS, so ASEA leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), ASEA annualized +3.65% vs +4.85% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ASEA or VXUS?
ASEA has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ASEA -49.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ASEA and VXUS?
ASEA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ASEA and VXUS?
ASEA and VXUS share 18 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8116 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ASEA or VXUS?
ASEA yields 3.68% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so ASEA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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