CPZ vs VXUS
Calamos Long/Short Equity & Dynamic Income Trust 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 | CPZ | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.85% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $418M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.49% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 693 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.72% | +15.24% | |
| 1Y Return | -8.00% | +26.32% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.69% | +19.85% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.77% | +9.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -52.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Calamos Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 29, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CPZ vs VXUS Performance
Calamos Long/Short Equity & Dynamic Income Trust (CPZ) is a ETF from Calamos Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CPZ returned -8.00% while VXUS returned +26.32%. Year to date, CPZ is down 0.72% versus a gain of 15.24% for VXUS.
Over three years, CPZ compounded at +7.69% per year against +19.85% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.77% and +9.23% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +3.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CPZ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.9% 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 -52.2% for CPZ 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CPZ charges 1.85% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $185 vs $5 annually, a gap of $180 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CPZ currently yields 11.49% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CPZ and VXUS share 25 holdings out of 8232 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CPZ or VXUS?
CPZ has an expense ratio of 1.85% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $180 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CPZ or VXUS?
Over the past year CPZ returned -8.00% vs +26.32% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), CPZ annualized +3.09% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CPZ or VXUS?
CPZ has been the more volatile fund at 18.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: CPZ -52.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CPZ and VXUS?
CPZ and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CPZ and VXUS?
CPZ and VXUS share 25 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8232 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CPZ or VXUS?
CPZ yields 11.49% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so CPZ 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.