FLQS vs VXUS
Franklin US Small Cap Multifactor Index 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 | FLQS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $53M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.33% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 499 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +17.36% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.54% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.23% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.85% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -42.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FLQS vs VXUS Performance
Franklin US Small Cap Multifactor Index ETF (FLQS) 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 FLQS returned +18.54% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FLQS is up 17.36% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FLQS compounded at +13.23% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.85% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FLQS has the edge at +9.05% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLQS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.7% 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 -42.2% for FLQS 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLQS charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLQS currently yields 1.33% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FLQS and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 8357 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, FLQS or VXUS?
FLQS has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLQS or VXUS?
Over the past year FLQS returned +18.54% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLQS annualized +9.05% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLQS or VXUS?
FLQS has been the more volatile fund at 18.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FLQS -42.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FLQS and VXUS?
FLQS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLQS and VXUS?
FLQS and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8357 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLQS or VXUS?
FLQS yields 1.33% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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