FLCH vs VXUS
Franklin FTSE China 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 | FLCH | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $334M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.33% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,030 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -11.59% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -5.22% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.03% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.23% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -62.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 2, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FLCH vs VXUS Performance
Franklin FTSE China ETF (FLCH) 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 FLCH returned -5.22% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FLCH is down 11.59% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FLCH compounded at +10.03% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -2.23% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs -0.31%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLCH has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 25.0% 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 -62.1% for FLCH 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLCH charges 0.19% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $5 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLCH currently yields 2.33% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FLCH and VXUS share 704 holdings out of 8112 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLCH or VXUS?
FLCH has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLCH or VXUS?
Over the past year FLCH returned -5.22% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLCH annualized -0.31% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLCH or VXUS?
FLCH has been the more volatile fund at 25.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FLCH -62.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FLCH and VXUS?
FLCH and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLCH and VXUS?
FLCH and VXUS share 704 common holdings with a 4.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8112 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLCH or VXUS?
FLCH yields 2.33% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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