EFAD vs VXUS
ProShares MSCI EAFE Dividend Growers 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 | EFAD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $62M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.64% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 78 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +8.08% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.07% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.33% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.84% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 19, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
EFAD vs VXUS Performance
ProShares MSCI EAFE Dividend Growers ETF (EFAD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EFAD returned +8.07% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, EFAD is up 8.08% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, EFAD compounded at +8.33% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +0.84% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +3.13%. 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 14.2% for EFAD. 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 -35.7% for EFAD 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EFAD charges 0.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $5 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EFAD currently yields 2.64% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
EFAD and VXUS share 49 holdings out of 7887 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EFAD or VXUS?
EFAD has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EFAD or VXUS?
Over the past year EFAD returned +8.07% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), EFAD annualized +3.13% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EFAD or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.2% for EFAD. Worst drawdown: EFAD -35.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both EFAD and VXUS?
EFAD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between EFAD and VXUS?
EFAD and VXUS share 49 common holdings with a 5.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7887 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EFAD or VXUS?
EFAD yields 2.64% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so EFAD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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