BOXX vs VXUS
BOXX vs VXUS
Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box 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 | BOXX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $13.2B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.28% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.08% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.71% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 0.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -0.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 28, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BOXX vs VXUS Performance
Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box ETF (BOXX) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BOXX returned +4.08% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, BOXX is up 2.28% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, BOXX compounded at +4.71% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +4.70%. 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 0.3% for BOXX. 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 -0.1% for BOXX 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 -0.19. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BOXX charges 0.19% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $5 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BOXX currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BOXX or VXUS?
BOXX has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BOXX or VXUS?
Over the past year BOXX returned +4.08% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), BOXX annualized +4.70% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BOXX or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 0.3% for BOXX. Worst drawdown: BOXX -0.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BOXX and VXUS?
BOXX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.19, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BOXX or VXUS?
BOXX yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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