FDNI vs VXUS
First Trust Dow Jones International Internet 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 | FDNI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $32M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -17.82% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -17.15% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.03% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -6.31% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -71.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 6, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FDNI vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Dow Jones International Internet ETF (FDNI) 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 FDNI returned -17.15% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FDNI is down 17.82% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FDNI compounded at +9.03% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -6.31% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, FDNI has the edge at +5.48% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDNI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.7% 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 -71.1% for FDNI 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDNI 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, FDNI currently yields 1.37% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FDNI and VXUS share 22 holdings out of 7887 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDNI or VXUS?
FDNI 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, FDNI or VXUS?
Over the past year FDNI returned -17.15% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FDNI annualized +5.48% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDNI or VXUS?
FDNI has been the more volatile fund at 27.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FDNI -71.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FDNI and VXUS?
FDNI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDNI and VXUS?
FDNI and VXUS share 22 common holdings with a 2.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7887 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDNI or VXUS?
FDNI yields 1.37% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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