FDG vs VXUS
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth 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 | FDG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $428M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.49% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.83% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +27.49% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.35% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | American Century ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FDG vs VXUS Performance
American Century Focused Dynamic Growth ETF (FDG) is a ETF from American Century ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FDG returned +16.83% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FDG is up 6.49% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FDG compounded at +27.49% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +10.35% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FDG has the edge at +21.79% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% 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 -43.7% for FDG 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDG charges 0.45% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $5 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDG currently yields 0.00% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FDG and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 7911 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDG or VXUS?
FDG has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDG or VXUS?
Over the past year FDG returned +16.83% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FDG annualized +21.79% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDG or VXUS?
FDG has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FDG -43.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FDG and VXUS?
FDG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDG and VXUS?
FDG and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7911 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDG or VXUS?
FDG yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.