EMSF vs VXUS
Matthews Emerging Markets Sustainable Future Active ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. EMSF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMSF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $43M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.30% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 60 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +32.66% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +46.37% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.96% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 22.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Matthews Asia Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 21, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
EMSF vs VXUS Performance
Matthews Emerging Markets Sustainable Future Active ETF (EMSF) is a ETF from Matthews Asia Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMSF returned +46.37% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, EMSF is up 32.66% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, EMSF compounded at +17.96% per year against +19.53% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, EMSF has the edge at +17.96% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMSF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 22.6% 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 -24.8% for EMSF 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMSF charges 0.79% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $5 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMSF currently yields 1.30% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
EMSF and VXUS share 38 holdings out of 7877 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EMSF | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2330:TW | 9.10% | 3.41% | 5.69% |
| 2383:TW | 4.20% | 0.05% | 4.15% |
| 084370:KR | 4.00% | 0.00% | 4.00% |
| 402340:KR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BANDHANBNK:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 267260:KR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 300750:SH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 9988:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| INDUSTOWER:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2308:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EMSF or VXUS?
EMSF has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMSF or VXUS?
Over the past year EMSF returned +46.37% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so EMSF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), EMSF annualized +17.96% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMSF or VXUS?
EMSF has been the more volatile fund at 22.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: EMSF -24.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both EMSF and VXUS?
EMSF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMSF and VXUS?
EMSF and VXUS share 38 common holdings with a 5.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7877 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMSF or VXUS?
EMSF yields 1.30% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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