FAN vs VXUS
First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FAN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FAN | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $256M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.99% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 57 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.91% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.80% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.80% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.28% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -82.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2008 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FAN vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Global Wind Energy ETF (FAN) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FAN returned +33.80% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FAN is up 14.91% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FAN compounded at +16.80% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.28% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs -0.95%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FAN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.7% 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 -82.1% for FAN 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FAN charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FAN currently yields 0.99% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FAN and VXUS share 27 holdings out of 7889 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FAN or VXUS?
FAN has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FAN or VXUS?
Over the past year FAN returned +33.80% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so FAN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), FAN annualized -0.95% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAN or VXUS?
FAN has been the more volatile fund at 24.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FAN -82.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FAN and VXUS?
FAN and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FAN and VXUS?
FAN and VXUS share 27 common holdings with a 0.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7889 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAN or VXUS?
FAN yields 0.99% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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