AVDS vs VXUS
Avantis International Small Cap Equity 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 | AVDS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $338M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.28% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 2,986 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.66% | +15.52% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.52% | +26.73% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.10% | +20.35% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.40% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Avantis Investors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 18, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
AVDS vs VXUS Performance
Avantis International Small Cap Equity ETF (AVDS) is a ETF from Avantis Investors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AVDS returned +26.52% while VXUS returned +26.73%. Year to date, AVDS is up 16.66% versus a gain of 15.52% for VXUS.
Over three years, AVDS compounded at +22.10% per year against +20.35% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, AVDS has the edge at +19.53% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 14.7% for AVDS. 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 -13.5% for AVDS 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 0.94. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AVDS charges 0.30% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $5 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AVDS currently yields 2.28% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
AVDS and VXUS share 1122 holdings out of 8671 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AVDS or VXUS?
AVDS has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AVDS or VXUS?
Over the past year AVDS returned +26.52% vs +26.73% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), AVDS annualized +19.53% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AVDS or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.7% for AVDS. Worst drawdown: AVDS -13.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both AVDS and VXUS?
AVDS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.94, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between AVDS and VXUS?
AVDS and VXUS share 1122 common holdings with a 4.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8671 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AVDS or VXUS?
AVDS yields 2.28% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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