DRGN vs VXUS
Themes China Generative Artificial Intelligence ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. DRGN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DRGN | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $27M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.12% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.80% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.25% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 36.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Themes ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 15, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DRGN vs VXUS Performance
Themes China Generative Artificial Intelligence ETF (DRGN) is a ETF from Themes ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DRGN returned +27.25% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, DRGN is up 6.80% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DRGN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 36.9% 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 -20.9% for DRGN 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DRGN charges 0.39% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $5 annually, a gap of $34 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DRGN currently yields 1.12% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DRGN and VXUS share 16 holdings out of 7877 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, DRGN or VXUS?
DRGN has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $34 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DRGN or VXUS?
Over the past year DRGN returned +27.25% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so DRGN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), DRGN annualized +35.99% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DRGN or VXUS?
DRGN has been the more volatile fund at 36.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: DRGN -20.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DRGN and VXUS?
DRGN and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DRGN and VXUS?
DRGN and VXUS share 16 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7877 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DRGN or VXUS?
DRGN yields 1.12% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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