FSGS vs VXUS
First Trust SMID Growth 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 | FSGS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.61% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $31M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.95% | +15.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.95% | +26.32% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.77% | +19.85% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.06% | +9.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 20, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FSGS vs VXUS Performance
First Trust SMID Growth Strength ETF (FSGS) 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 FSGS returned +8.95% while VXUS returned +26.32%. Year to date, FSGS is up 11.95% versus a gain of 15.24% for VXUS.
Over three years, FSGS compounded at +8.77% per year against +19.85% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +5.06% and +9.23% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FSGS has the edge at +7.19% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FSGS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -45.0% for FSGS 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSGS charges 0.61% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $61 vs $5 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSGS currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FSGS 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 FSGS | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM | 1.05% | 0.02% | 1.03% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FSGS or VXUS?
FSGS has an expense ratio of 0.61% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSGS or VXUS?
Over the past year FSGS returned +8.95% vs +26.32% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FSGS annualized +7.19% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSGS or VXUS?
FSGS has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FSGS -45.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FSGS and VXUS?
FSGS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSGS and VXUS?
FSGS and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7960 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSGS or VXUS?
FSGS yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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