FSIG vs VXUS
FSIG vs VXUS
First Trust Limited Duration Investment Grade Corporate 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 | FSIG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.44% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.80% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 322 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.91% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.79% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.02% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -6.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 17, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FSIG vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Limited Duration Investment Grade Corporate ETF (FSIG) 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 FSIG returned +2.79% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FSIG is up 0.91% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FSIG compounded at +5.02% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +2.72%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 3.2% for FSIG. 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 -6.9% for FSIG 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSIG charges 0.44% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $44 vs $5 annually, a gap of $39 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSIG currently yields 4.80% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FSIG and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8088 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, FSIG or VXUS?
FSIG has an expense ratio of 0.44% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $39 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSIG or VXUS?
Over the past year FSIG returned +2.79% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), FSIG annualized +2.72% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSIG or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 3.2% for FSIG. Worst drawdown: FSIG -6.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FSIG and VXUS?
FSIG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSIG and VXUS?
FSIG and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8088 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSIG or VXUS?
FSIG yields 4.80% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so FSIG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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