DRSK vs VXUS
Aptus Defined Risk ETF 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 | DRSK | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.78% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.70% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 25 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.55% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.87% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.98% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.21% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Aptus Capital Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 7, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
DRSK vs VXUS Performance
Aptus Defined Risk ETF (DRSK) is a ETF from Aptus Capital Advisors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DRSK returned +1.87% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, DRSK is up 1.55% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, DRSK compounded at +7.98% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.21% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, DRSK has the edge at +5.06% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 7.9% for DRSK. 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 -19.9% for DRSK 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DRSK charges 0.78% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $78 vs $5 annually, a gap of $73 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DRSK currently yields 3.70% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
DRSK and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7871 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, DRSK or VXUS?
DRSK has an expense ratio of 0.78% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $73 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DRSK or VXUS?
Over the past year DRSK returned +1.87% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), DRSK annualized +5.06% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DRSK or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 7.9% for DRSK. Worst drawdown: DRSK -19.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both DRSK and VXUS?
DRSK and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DRSK and VXUS?
DRSK and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7871 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DRSK or VXUS?
DRSK yields 3.70% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so DRSK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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