BGLD vs VXUS
FT Vest Gold Strategy Quarterly Buffer 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BGLD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.91% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $51M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -1.86% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.44% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.38% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.85% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 20, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BGLD vs VXUS Performance
FT Vest Gold Strategy Quarterly Buffer ETF (BGLD) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BGLD returned +9.44% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, BGLD is down 1.86% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, BGLD compounded at +19.38% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.85% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, BGLD has the edge at +9.68% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 10.1% for BGLD. 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 -16.2% for BGLD 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 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BGLD charges 0.91% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $91 vs $5 annually, a gap of $86 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BGLD currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BGLD or VXUS?
BGLD has an expense ratio of 0.91% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $86 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BGLD or VXUS?
Over the past year BGLD returned +9.44% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), BGLD annualized +9.68% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BGLD or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 10.1% for BGLD. Worst drawdown: BGLD -16.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BGLD and VXUS?
BGLD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BGLD or VXUS?
BGLD yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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