CHAU vs VXUS
Direxion Daily CSI 300 China A Share Bull 2X ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. CHAU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CHAU | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.19% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $89M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.13% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +43.76% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.55% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -8.58% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 45.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -79.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 16, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CHAU vs VXUS Performance
Direxion Daily CSI 300 China A Share Bull 2X ETF (CHAU) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CHAU returned +43.76% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, CHAU is up 6.13% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, CHAU compounded at +8.55% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -8.58% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -4.72%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CHAU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 45.7% 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 -79.7% for CHAU 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CHAU charges 1.19% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $119 vs $5 annually, a gap of $114 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CHAU currently yields 1.80% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CHAU and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7866 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, CHAU or VXUS?
CHAU has an expense ratio of 1.19% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $114 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CHAU or VXUS?
Over the past year CHAU returned +43.76% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so CHAU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), CHAU annualized -4.72% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CHAU or VXUS?
CHAU has been the more volatile fund at 45.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: CHAU -79.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CHAU and VXUS?
CHAU and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CHAU and VXUS?
CHAU and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CHAU or VXUS?
CHAU yields 1.80% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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