ASHS vs VXUS
Xtrackers Harvest CSI 500 China A-Shares Small Cap ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. ASHS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ASHS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $35M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 495 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.33% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.38% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.39% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.42% | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 21, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ASHS vs VXUS Performance
Xtrackers Harvest CSI 500 China A-Shares Small Cap ETF (ASHS) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ASHS returned +32.38% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, ASHS is up 13.33% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, ASHS compounded at +16.39% per year against +20.98% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.42% and +9.68% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, ASHS has the edge at +5.89% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ASHS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.6% 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 -69.9% for ASHS 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 0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ASHS 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, ASHS currently yields 0.00% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ASHS and VXUS share 354 holdings out of 8005 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ASHS or VXUS?
ASHS 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, ASHS or VXUS?
Over the past year ASHS returned +32.38% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so ASHS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), ASHS annualized +5.89% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ASHS or VXUS?
ASHS has been the more volatile fund at 27.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ASHS -69.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ASHS and VXUS?
ASHS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ASHS and VXUS?
ASHS and VXUS share 354 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8005 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ASHS or VXUS?
ASHS yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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