CBLS vs VXUS
Clough Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. CBLS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CBLS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.90% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $57M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.82% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 77 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.30% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +38.20% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.54% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Changebridge Capital | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 13, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CBLS vs VXUS Performance
Clough Hedged Equity ETF (CBLS) is a ETF from Changebridge Capital and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CBLS returned +38.20% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, CBLS is up 6.30% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, CBLS compounded at +6.54% per year against +20.98% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, CBLS has the edge at +8.27% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CBLS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.2% compared with 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -32.8% for CBLS 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 0.39. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CBLS charges 1.90% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $190 vs $5 annually, a gap of $185 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CBLS currently yields 0.82% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CBLS and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 7938 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CBLS or VXUS?
CBLS has an expense ratio of 1.90% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $185 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CBLS or VXUS?
Over the past year CBLS returned +38.20% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so CBLS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), CBLS annualized +8.27% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CBLS or VXUS?
CBLS has been the more volatile fund at 17.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: CBLS -32.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CBLS and VXUS?
CBLS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.39, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CBLS and VXUS?
CBLS and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7938 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CBLS or VXUS?
CBLS yields 0.82% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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