BUFH vs VXUS
BUFH vs VXUS
FT Vest Laddered Max 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 | BUFH | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $57M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 13 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +3.53% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.33% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -1.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 24, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
BUFH vs VXUS Performance
FT Vest Laddered Max Buffer ETF (BUFH) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BUFH returned +6.33% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, BUFH is up 3.53% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 1.8% for BUFH. 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 -1.5% for BUFH 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BUFH charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BUFH currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
BUFH 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, BUFH or VXUS?
BUFH has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BUFH or VXUS?
Over the past year BUFH returned +6.33% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), BUFH annualized +6.71% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BUFH or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 1.8% for BUFH. Worst drawdown: BUFH -1.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both BUFH and VXUS?
BUFH and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BUFH and VXUS?
BUFH and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7873 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BUFH or VXUS?
BUFH yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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