FNCMX vs VXUS
Fidelity NASDAQ Composite Index 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 | FNCMX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | - | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.45% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 2,946 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.87% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.49% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.16% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.68% | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2003 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FNCMX vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity NASDAQ Composite Index (FNCMX) is a mutual fund from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FNCMX returned +24.49% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, FNCMX is up 14.87% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, FNCMX compounded at +25.16% per year against +19.53% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.68% and +9.03% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, FNCMX has the edge at +12.68% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FNCMX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.1% 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 -36.8% for FNCMX 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FNCMX 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, FNCMX currently yields 0.45% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FNCMX and VXUS share 62 holdings out of 10625 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FNCMX or VXUS?
FNCMX 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, FNCMX or VXUS?
Over the past year FNCMX returned +24.49% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), FNCMX annualized +12.68% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FNCMX or VXUS?
FNCMX has been the more volatile fund at 20.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FNCMX -36.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FNCMX and VXUS?
FNCMX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FNCMX and VXUS?
FNCMX and VXUS share 62 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 10625 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FNCMX or VXUS?
FNCMX yields 0.45% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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