BNDX vs VCSH
Vanguard Total International Bond ETF vs Vanguard Short Term Corporate Bond ETF
Quick Verdict
VCSH has a lower expense ratio. VCSH delivered stronger 1-year returns. VCSH offers more diversification with 2440 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BNDX | VCSH | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.07% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $83.0B | $44.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.45% | 4.44% | |
| Holdings | 13,626 | 2,719 | |
| YTD Return | +0.35% | +0.70% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.22% | +2.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.18% | +5.52% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.06% | +2.31% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.1% | 2.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.2% | -12.9% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Fixed Income | |
| Inception | May 31, 2013 | Nov 19, 2009 |
BNDX vs VCSH Performance
Vanguard Total International Bond ETF (BNDX) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Short Term Corporate Bond ETF (VCSH) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BNDX returned +1.22% while VCSH returned +2.88%. Year to date, BNDX is up 0.35% versus a gain of 0.70% for VCSH.
Over three years, BNDX compounded at +4.18% per year against +5.52% for VCSH; over five years the annualized figures are -0.06% and +2.31% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VCSH has the edge at +1.28% annualized vs +1.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BNDX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 4.1% compared with 2.6% for VCSH. 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 -12.9% for VCSH. 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BNDX charges 0.07% per year while VCSH charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $7 vs $3 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BNDX currently yields 4.45% against 4.44% for VCSH.
Holdings Overlap
BNDX and VCSH share 0 holdings out of 3709 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 VCSH?
BNDX has an expense ratio of 0.07% while VCSH charges 0.03%. VCSH is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BNDX or VCSH?
Over the past year BNDX returned +1.22% vs +2.88% for VCSH, so VCSH leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), BNDX annualized +1.08% vs +1.28% for VCSH. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BNDX or VCSH?
BNDX has been the more volatile fund at 4.1% annualized versus 2.6% for VCSH. Worst drawdown: BNDX -17.2% vs VCSH -12.9%.
Should I hold both BNDX and VCSH?
BNDX and VCSH have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BNDX and VCSH?
BNDX and VCSH share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3709 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BNDX or VCSH?
BNDX yields 4.45% while VCSH yields 4.44%, so BNDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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