FCTR vs VXUS
First Trust Lunt US Factor Rotation 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FCTR | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $57M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.50% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 163 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.78% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.55% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.52% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.47% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 23, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FCTR vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Lunt US Factor Rotation ETF (FCTR) 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 FCTR returned +19.55% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FCTR is up 11.78% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FCTR compounded at +17.52% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.47% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, FCTR has the edge at +9.82% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FCTR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.0% 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 -37.1% for FCTR 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
FCTR charges 0.65% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $5 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FCTR currently yields 0.50% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FCTR or VXUS?
FCTR has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FCTR or VXUS?
Over the past year FCTR returned +19.55% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FCTR annualized +9.82% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FCTR or VXUS?
FCTR has been the more volatile fund at 20.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FCTR -37.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FCTR and VXUS?
FCTR 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 FCTR and VXUS?
FCTR and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8034 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FCTR or VXUS?
FCTR yields 0.50% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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