EEMS vs VXUS
Ishares MSCI Emerging Markets Small Cap 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 | EEMS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.73% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $357M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.81% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,875 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.97% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.03% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.76% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.53% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 16, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
EEMS vs VXUS Performance
Ishares MSCI Emerging Markets Small Cap ETF (EEMS) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EEMS returned +18.03% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, EEMS is up 9.97% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, EEMS compounded at +13.76% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.53% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +3.77%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EEMS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.3% 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 -51.7% for EEMS 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EEMS charges 0.73% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $73 vs $5 annually, a gap of $68 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EEMS currently yields 2.81% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
EEMS and VXUS share 776 holdings out of 8555 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EEMS or VXUS?
EEMS has an expense ratio of 0.73% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $68 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EEMS or VXUS?
Over the past year EEMS returned +18.03% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), EEMS annualized +3.77% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EEMS or VXUS?
EEMS has been the more volatile fund at 17.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: EEMS -51.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both EEMS and VXUS?
EEMS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EEMS and VXUS?
EEMS and VXUS share 776 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8555 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EEMS or VXUS?
EEMS yields 2.81% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so EEMS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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