BSEP vs VXUS
BSEP vs VXUS
Innovator U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - September 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 | BSEP | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $214M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.08% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.83% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.64% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.89% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 30, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BSEP vs VXUS Performance
Innovator U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - September (BSEP) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BSEP returned +16.83% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, BSEP is up 9.08% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, BSEP compounded at +15.64% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +10.89% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, BSEP has the edge at +12.24% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 11.7% for BSEP. 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 -24.0% for BSEP 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BSEP charges 0.79% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $5 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BSEP currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BSEP or VXUS?
BSEP has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BSEP or VXUS?
Over the past year BSEP returned +16.83% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), BSEP annualized +12.24% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BSEP or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 11.7% for BSEP. Worst drawdown: BSEP -24.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BSEP and VXUS?
BSEP and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BSEP or VXUS?
BSEP yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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