CDX vs VXUS
CDX vs VXUS
Simplify High Yield 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 | CDX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $377M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.31% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 227 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -1.94% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.14% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.23% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 14, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CDX vs VXUS Performance
Simplify High Yield ETF (CDX) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CDX returned -3.14% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, CDX is down 1.94% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, CDX compounded at +7.23% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +4.05%. 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 7.5% for CDX. 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 -13.2% for CDX 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CDX charges 0.25% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $5 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CDX currently yields 8.31% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CDX and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8016 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in CDX | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| UBSG:SM | 19.15% | 0.30% | 18.85% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CDX or VXUS?
CDX has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CDX or VXUS?
Over the past year CDX returned -3.14% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), CDX annualized +4.05% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CDX or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 7.5% for CDX. Worst drawdown: CDX -13.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CDX and VXUS?
CDX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CDX and VXUS?
CDX and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8016 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CDX or VXUS?
CDX yields 8.31% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so CDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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