FLAG vs VXUS
FLAG vs VXUS
Global X S&P 500 US Market Leaders Top 50 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 | FLAG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 52 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -20.87% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -24.16% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 15, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FLAG vs VXUS Performance
Global X S&P 500 US Market Leaders Top 50 ETF (FLAG) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FLAG returned -24.16% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FLAG is down 20.87% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 13.6% for FLAG. 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 -43.9% for FLAG 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 0.29. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLAG charges 0.29% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $5 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLAG currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FLAG and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7897 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, FLAG or VXUS?
FLAG has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLAG or VXUS?
Over the past year FLAG returned -24.16% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FLAG annualized -10.23% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLAG or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.6% for FLAG. Worst drawdown: FLAG -43.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FLAG and VXUS?
FLAG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.29, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLAG and VXUS?
FLAG and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7897 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLAG or VXUS?
FLAG yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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