DIEM vs VXUS
Franklin Emerging Market Core Dividend Tilt Index ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DIEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DIEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $93M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.96% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 604 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +24.09% | +14.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +39.89% | +25.40% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.72% | +20.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.10% | +9.76% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 1, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DIEM vs VXUS Performance
Franklin Emerging Market Core Dividend Tilt Index ETF (DIEM) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DIEM returned +39.89% while VXUS returned +25.40%. Year to date, DIEM is up 24.09% versus a gain of 14.26% for VXUS.
Over three years, DIEM compounded at +26.72% per year against +20.47% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.10% and +9.76% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, DIEM has the edge at +7.20% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DIEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.7% 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 -44.4% for DIEM 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DIEM charges 0.19% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $5 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DIEM currently yields 2.96% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DIEM and VXUS share 375 holdings out of 8001 unique holdings combined, representing a 12.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DIEM or VXUS?
DIEM has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DIEM or VXUS?
Over the past year DIEM returned +39.89% vs +25.40% for VXUS, so DIEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), DIEM annualized +7.20% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DIEM or VXUS?
DIEM has been the more volatile fund at 15.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DIEM -44.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DIEM and VXUS?
DIEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, 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 DIEM and VXUS?
DIEM and VXUS share 375 common holdings with a 12.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8001 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DIEM or VXUS?
DIEM yields 2.96% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so DIEM 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.