FDM vs VXUS
First Trust Dow Jones Select MicroCap Index Fund vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FDM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $277M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.36% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 149 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +21.44% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.98% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.71% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.77% | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 27, 2005 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FDM vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Dow Jones Select MicroCap Index Fund (FDM) 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 FDM returned +33.98% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, FDM is up 21.44% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, FDM compounded at +20.71% per year against +20.98% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.77% and +9.68% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, FDM has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.1% 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 -64.0% for FDM 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDM 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, FDM currently yields 1.36% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FDM and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8014 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FDM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| DCH | 1.78% | 0.00% | 1.78% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDM or VXUS?
FDM 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, FDM or VXUS?
Over the past year FDM returned +33.98% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so FDM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), FDM annualized +8.16% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDM or VXUS?
FDM has been the more volatile fund at 21.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FDM -64.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FDM and VXUS?
FDM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDM and VXUS?
FDM and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8014 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDM or VXUS?
FDM yields 1.36% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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