CSQ vs VXUS
Calamos Strategic Total Return Fund 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 | CSQ | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.03% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5.0B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.90% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 816 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.03% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.17% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.16% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.63% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -72.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Calamos Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 26, 2004 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CSQ vs VXUS Performance
Calamos Strategic Total Return Fund (CSQ) is a ETF from Calamos Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CSQ returned +23.17% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, CSQ is up 14.03% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, CSQ compounded at +21.16% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +10.63% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +3.44%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CSQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.3% 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 -72.7% for CSQ 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CSQ charges 2.03% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $203 vs $5 annually, a gap of $198 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CSQ currently yields 5.90% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CSQ and VXUS share 23 holdings out of 8290 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CSQ or VXUS?
CSQ has an expense ratio of 2.03% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $198 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CSQ or VXUS?
Over the past year CSQ returned +23.17% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), CSQ annualized +3.44% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CSQ or VXUS?
CSQ has been the more volatile fund at 20.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: CSQ -72.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CSQ and VXUS?
CSQ and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CSQ and VXUS?
CSQ and VXUS share 23 common holdings with a 0.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8290 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CSQ or VXUS?
CSQ yields 5.90% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so CSQ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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