FLMI vs VXUS
Franklin Dynamic Municipal 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 | FLMI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.4B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.96% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,342 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.74% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.73% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.61% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.83% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 31, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FLMI vs VXUS Performance
Franklin Dynamic Municipal Bond ETF (FLMI) 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 FLMI returned +6.73% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FLMI is up 1.74% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FLMI compounded at +5.61% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +1.83% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +2.04%. 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 5.5% for FLMI. 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 -14.7% for FLMI 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLMI charges 0.30% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $5 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLMI currently yields 3.96% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FLMI and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8071 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, FLMI or VXUS?
FLMI has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLMI or VXUS?
Over the past year FLMI returned +6.73% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLMI annualized +2.04% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLMI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.5% for FLMI. Worst drawdown: FLMI -14.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FLMI and VXUS?
FLMI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLMI and VXUS?
FLMI and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8071 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLMI or VXUS?
FLMI yields 3.96% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so FLMI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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