FSCS vs VXUS
First Trust SMID Capital Strength 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FSCS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $58M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.91% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +8.22% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.25% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.41% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.07% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 20, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FSCS vs VXUS Performance
First Trust SMID Capital Strength ETF (FSCS) 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 FSCS returned +8.25% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FSCS is up 8.22% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FSCS compounded at +10.41% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.07% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FSCS has the edge at +8.43% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FSCS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.6% 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 -43.6% for FSCS 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSCS charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSCS currently yields 0.91% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FSCS and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7960 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FSCS | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM | 1.07% | 0.02% | 1.05% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FSCS or VXUS?
FSCS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSCS or VXUS?
Over the past year FSCS returned +8.25% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FSCS annualized +8.43% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSCS or VXUS?
FSCS has been the more volatile fund at 19.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FSCS -43.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FSCS and VXUS?
FSCS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSCS and VXUS?
FSCS and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7960 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSCS or VXUS?
FSCS yields 0.91% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.