FICS vs VXUS
First Trust International Developed Capital Strength 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FICS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $215M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.91% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.51% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.67% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.81% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.66% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 15, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FICS vs VXUS Performance
First Trust International Developed Capital Strength ETF (FICS) 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 FICS returned +13.67% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FICS is up 9.51% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FICS compounded at +12.81% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +5.66% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FICS has the edge at +8.36% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 14.7% for FICS. 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 -29.2% for FICS 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FICS charges 0.70% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $5 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FICS currently yields 1.91% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FICS and VXUS share 39 holdings out of 7872 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FICS or VXUS?
FICS has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FICS or VXUS?
Over the past year FICS returned +13.67% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FICS annualized +8.36% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FICS or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.7% for FICS. Worst drawdown: FICS -29.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FICS and VXUS?
FICS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FICS and VXUS?
FICS and VXUS share 39 common holdings with a 6.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7872 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FICS or VXUS?
FICS yields 1.91% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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