CSM vs VXUS
ProShares Large Cap Core Plus 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 | CSM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $509M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 308 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +12.13% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.53% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.99% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.99% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 13, 2009 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CSM vs VXUS Performance
ProShares Large Cap Core Plus (CSM) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CSM returned +24.53% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, CSM is up 12.13% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, CSM compounded at +20.99% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.99% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, CSM has the edge at +14.99% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 15.0% for CSM. 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 -36.1% for CSM 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CSM charges 0.45% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $5 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CSM currently yields 1.05% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CSM and VXUS share 4 holdings out of 8159 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, CSM or VXUS?
CSM has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CSM or VXUS?
Over the past year CSM returned +24.53% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), CSM annualized +14.99% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CSM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 15.0% for CSM. Worst drawdown: CSM -36.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CSM and VXUS?
CSM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CSM and VXUS?
CSM and VXUS share 4 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8159 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CSM or VXUS?
CSM yields 1.05% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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