BNDX vs VBK
BNDX vs VBK
Vanguard Total International Bond ETF vs Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF
Quick Verdict
VBK has a lower expense ratio. VBK delivered stronger 1-year returns. BNDX offers more diversification with 1269 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BNDX | VBK | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.07% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $83.0B | $24.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.45% | 0.57% | |
| Holdings | 13,626 | 561 | |
| YTD Return | +0.62% | +17.71% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.16% | +29.45% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.99% | +16.91% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.00% | +5.29% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.1% | 19.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.2% | -59.4% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 31, 2013 | Jan 26, 2004 |
BNDX vs VBK Performance
Vanguard Total International Bond ETF (BNDX) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF (VBK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BNDX returned +1.16% while VBK returned +29.45%. Year to date, BNDX is up 0.62% versus a gain of 17.71% for VBK.
Over three years, BNDX compounded at +3.99% per year against +16.91% for VBK; over five years the annualized figures are +0.00% and +5.29% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VBK has the edge at +9.41% annualized vs +1.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VBK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.6% compared with 4.1% for BNDX. 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 -17.2% for BNDX and -59.4% for VBK. 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BNDX charges 0.07% per year while VBK charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $7 vs $5 annually, a gap of $2 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BNDX currently yields 4.45% against 0.57% for VBK.
Holdings Overlap
BNDX and VBK share 0 holdings out of 1811 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BNDX or VBK?
BNDX has an expense ratio of 0.07% while VBK charges 0.05%. VBK is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $2 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BNDX or VBK?
Over the past year BNDX returned +1.16% vs +29.45% for VBK, so VBK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), BNDX annualized +1.10% vs +9.41% for VBK. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BNDX or VBK?
VBK has been the more volatile fund at 19.6% annualized versus 4.1% for BNDX. Worst drawdown: BNDX -17.2% vs VBK -59.4%.
Should I hold both BNDX and VBK?
BNDX and VBK have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BNDX and VBK?
BNDX and VBK share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1811 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BNDX or VBK?
BNDX yields 4.45% while VBK yields 0.57%, so BNDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.