BIS vs VXUS
ProShares UltraShort Nasdaq Biotechnology 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 | BIS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.61% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -39.42% | +14.98% | |
| 1Y Return | -59.12% | +25.63% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -32.43% | +19.65% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -17.76% | +9.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 39.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 6, 2010 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BIS vs VXUS Performance
ProShares UltraShort Nasdaq Biotechnology (BIS) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BIS returned -59.12% while VXUS returned +25.63%. Year to date, BIS is down 39.42% versus a gain of 14.98% for VXUS.
Over three years, BIS compounded at -32.43% per year against +19.65% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -17.76% and +9.30% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.87% annualized vs -33.35%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BIS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 39.6% 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 -99.9% for BIS 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 -0.49. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BIS charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BIS currently yields 5.61% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BIS or VXUS?
BIS has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BIS or VXUS?
Over the past year BIS returned -59.12% vs +25.63% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), BIS annualized -33.35% vs +4.87% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BIS or VXUS?
BIS has been the more volatile fund at 39.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: BIS -99.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BIS and VXUS?
BIS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.49, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BIS or VXUS?
BIS yields 5.61% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so BIS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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