FGDL vs VXUS
Franklin Responsibly Sourced Gold ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FGDL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FGDL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $415M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.78% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.26% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +31.73% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 30, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FGDL vs VXUS Performance
Franklin Responsibly Sourced Gold ETF (FGDL) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FGDL returned +30.26% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, FGDL is up 0.78% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, FGDL compounded at +31.73% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, FGDL has the edge at +23.92% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FGDL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.7% 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 -26.6% for FGDL 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FGDL charges 0.15% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $5 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FGDL currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FGDL or VXUS?
FGDL has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FGDL or VXUS?
Over the past year FGDL returned +30.26% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so FGDL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FGDL annualized +23.92% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FGDL or VXUS?
FGDL has been the more volatile fund at 17.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FGDL -26.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FGDL and VXUS?
FGDL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FGDL or VXUS?
FGDL yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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