EMCS vs VXUS
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. EMCS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMCS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $989M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.61% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 67 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +23.44% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +44.02% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.15% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.57% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
EMCS vs VXUS Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Emerging Markets Select ETF (EMCS) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMCS returned +44.02% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, EMCS is up 23.44% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, EMCS compounded at +26.15% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.57% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, EMCS has the edge at +9.96% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.2% 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 -44.9% for EMCS 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMCS charges 0.15% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $5 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMCS currently yields 1.61% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
EMCS and VXUS share 35 holdings out of 7897 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EMCS | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2330:TW | 19.58% | 3.41% | 16.17% |
| 000660:KR | 8.04% | 0.90% | 7.14% |
| 0700:HK | 4.72% | 0.92% | 3.80% |
| 9988:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2454:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2308:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2317:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ICICIBANK:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ITUB4:BV | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BHARTIARTL:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EMCS or VXUS?
EMCS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMCS or VXUS?
Over the past year EMCS returned +44.02% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so EMCS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), EMCS annualized +9.96% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMCS or VXUS?
EMCS has been the more volatile fund at 19.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: EMCS -44.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both EMCS and VXUS?
EMCS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMCS and VXUS?
EMCS and VXUS share 35 common holdings with a 8.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7897 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMCS or VXUS?
EMCS yields 1.61% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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