BUFF vs VXUS
BUFF vs VXUS
Innovator Laddered Allocation Power 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 | BUFF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.89% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $924M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 14 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.16% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.59% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.87% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.86% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 20, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BUFF vs VXUS Performance
Innovator Laddered Allocation Power Buffer ETF (BUFF) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BUFF returned +12.59% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, BUFF is up 7.16% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, BUFF compounded at +11.87% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.86% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, BUFF has the edge at +7.96% 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 13.4% for BUFF. 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 -46.2% for BUFF 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BUFF 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, BUFF currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
BUFF 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, BUFF or VXUS?
BUFF 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, BUFF or VXUS?
Over the past year BUFF returned +12.59% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), BUFF annualized +7.96% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BUFF or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.4% for BUFF. Worst drawdown: BUFF -46.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BUFF and VXUS?
BUFF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BUFF and VXUS?
BUFF and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7873 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BUFF or VXUS?
BUFF yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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