CEFA vs VXUS
Global X S&P Catholic Values Developed ex-US 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CEFA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $59M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.68% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 367 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.06% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.86% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.32% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.23% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 22, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CEFA vs VXUS Performance
Global X S&P Catholic Values Developed ex-US ETF (CEFA) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CEFA returned +20.86% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, CEFA is up 13.06% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, CEFA compounded at +18.32% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.23% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, CEFA has the edge at +11.51% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CEFA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -32.0% for CEFA 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 0.95. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CEFA charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CEFA currently yields 2.68% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CEFA and VXUS share 209 holdings out of 8007 unique holdings combined, representing a 19.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CEFA or VXUS?
CEFA has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CEFA or VXUS?
Over the past year CEFA returned +20.86% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), CEFA annualized +11.51% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CEFA or VXUS?
CEFA has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: CEFA -32.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CEFA and VXUS?
CEFA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.95, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between CEFA and VXUS?
CEFA and VXUS share 209 common holdings with a 19.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8007 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CEFA or VXUS?
CEFA yields 2.68% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so CEFA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.