DIG vs VXUS
DIG vs VXUS
ProShares Ultra Energy vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DIG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DIG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $80M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +52.71% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +77.63% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.01% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +33.24% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 52.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -97.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DIG vs VXUS Performance
ProShares Ultra Energy (DIG) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DIG returned +77.63% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, DIG is up 52.71% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, DIG compounded at +14.01% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +33.24% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -1.76%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DIG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 52.9% 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 -97.4% for DIG 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DIG charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DIG currently yields 1.80% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DIG and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7883 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, DIG or VXUS?
DIG has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DIG or VXUS?
Over the past year DIG returned +77.63% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so DIG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), DIG annualized -1.76% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DIG or VXUS?
DIG has been the more volatile fund at 52.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DIG -97.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DIG and VXUS?
DIG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DIG and VXUS?
DIG and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7883 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DIG or VXUS?
DIG yields 1.80% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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