BKEM vs VXUS
BNY Mellon Emerging Markets 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 | BKEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.11% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $91M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.85% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,795 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -60.48% | +13.56% | |
| 1Y Return | -55.65% | +24.30% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -15.56% | +20.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -13.20% | +9.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 32.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -71.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | BNY Mellon Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 22, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BKEM vs VXUS Performance
BNY Mellon Emerging Markets Equity ETF (BKEM) is a ETF from BNY Mellon Investment Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BKEM returned -55.65% while VXUS returned +24.30%. Year to date, BKEM is down 60.48% versus a gain of 13.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, BKEM compounded at -15.56% per year against +20.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -13.20% and +9.37% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.79% annualized vs -5.65%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BKEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 32.3% 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 -71.3% for BKEM 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BKEM charges 0.11% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $11 vs $5 annually, a gap of $6 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BKEM currently yields 3.85% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
BKEM and VXUS share 976 holdings out of 8180 unique holdings combined, representing a 16.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BKEM or VXUS?
BKEM has an expense ratio of 0.11% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $6 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BKEM or VXUS?
Over the past year BKEM returned -55.65% vs +24.30% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), BKEM annualized -5.65% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BKEM or VXUS?
BKEM has been the more volatile fund at 32.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: BKEM -71.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BKEM and VXUS?
BKEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BKEM and VXUS?
BKEM and VXUS share 976 common holdings with a 16.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8180 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BKEM or VXUS?
BKEM yields 3.85% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so BKEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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