FPXI vs VXUS
First Trust International Equity Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FPXI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FPXI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $302M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.67% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 61 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +24.48% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.28% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +25.24% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.39% | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 4, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FPXI vs VXUS Performance
First Trust International Equity Opportunities ETF (FPXI) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FPXI returned +30.28% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, FPXI is up 24.48% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, FPXI compounded at +25.24% per year against +20.98% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.39% and +9.68% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, FPXI has the edge at +8.51% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FPXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.5% 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 -55.8% for FPXI 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FPXI charges 0.70% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $5 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FPXI currently yields 0.67% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FPXI and VXUS share 33 holdings out of 7887 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FPXI or VXUS?
FPXI has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FPXI or VXUS?
Over the past year FPXI returned +30.28% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so FPXI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FPXI annualized +8.51% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FPXI or VXUS?
FPXI has been the more volatile fund at 20.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FPXI -55.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FPXI and VXUS?
FPXI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FPXI and VXUS?
FPXI and VXUS share 33 common holdings with a 1.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7887 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FPXI or VXUS?
FPXI yields 0.67% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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