BUFB vs VXUS
BUFB vs VXUS
Innovator Laddered Allocation Buffer 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 | BUFB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.89% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $320M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 14 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.90% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.89% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.09% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 8, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BUFB vs VXUS Performance
Innovator Laddered Allocation Buffer ETF (BUFB) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BUFB returned +16.89% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, BUFB is up 9.90% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, BUFB compounded at +15.09% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, BUFB has the edge at +11.02% 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 10.8% for BUFB. 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 -14.9% for BUFB 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BUFB charges 0.89% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $89 vs $5 annually, a gap of $84 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BUFB currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
BUFB and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7873 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, BUFB or VXUS?
BUFB has an expense ratio of 0.89% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $84 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BUFB or VXUS?
Over the past year BUFB returned +16.89% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), BUFB annualized +11.02% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BUFB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 10.8% for BUFB. Worst drawdown: BUFB -14.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BUFB and VXUS?
BUFB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BUFB and VXUS?
BUFB and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7873 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BUFB or VXUS?
BUFB yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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