FEMB vs VXUS
First Trust Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond 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 | FEMB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $380M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.19% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 68 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.96% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.98% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.72% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.10% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -47.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 4, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FEMB vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF (FEMB) 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 FEMB returned +7.98% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FEMB is up 2.96% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FEMB compounded at +7.72% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.10% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs -1.78%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 11.4% for FEMB. 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 -47.5% for FEMB 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
FEMB charges 0.85% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $5 annually, a gap of $80 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FEMB currently yields 6.19% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FEMB and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7870 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FEMB or VXUS?
FEMB has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $80 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FEMB or VXUS?
Over the past year FEMB returned +7.98% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FEMB annualized -1.78% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FEMB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 11.4% for FEMB. Worst drawdown: FEMB -47.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FEMB and VXUS?
FEMB 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 FEMB and VXUS?
FEMB and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7870 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FEMB or VXUS?
FEMB yields 6.19% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so FEMB 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.