DLAG vs VXUS
FT Vest US Equity Dual Directional Buffer ETF - August 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DLAG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $13M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.31% | +13.91% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.57% | +25.90% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.76% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.82% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.8% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 19, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DLAG vs VXUS Performance
FT Vest US Equity Dual Directional Buffer ETF - August (DLAG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DLAG returned +9.57% while VXUS returned +25.90%. Year to date, DLAG is up 7.31% versus a gain of 13.91% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% compared with 5.8% for DLAG. 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 -4.2% for DLAG 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DLAG charges 0.85% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $5 annually, a gap of $80 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DLAG currently yields 0.00% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DLAG or VXUS?
DLAG has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $80 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DLAG or VXUS?
Over the past year DLAG returned +9.57% vs +25.90% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DLAG or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 5.8% for DLAG. Worst drawdown: DLAG -4.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DLAG and VXUS?
DLAG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, DLAG or VXUS?
DLAG yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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