FSST vs VXUS
Fidelity Sustainable US Equity 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FSST | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $13M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.55% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 90 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.66% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.71% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.45% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 15, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FSST vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity Sustainable US Equity ETF (FSST) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FSST returned +12.71% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, FSST is up 15.66% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, FSST compounded at +19.45% per year against +20.34% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, FSST has the edge at +11.54% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FSST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.4% 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 -26.3% for FSST 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
FSST charges 0.59% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $5 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSST currently yields 1.55% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FSST and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 7957 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, FSST or VXUS?
FSST has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSST or VXUS?
Over the past year FSST returned +12.71% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FSST annualized +11.54% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSST or VXUS?
FSST has been the more volatile fund at 17.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FSST -26.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FSST and VXUS?
FSST 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 FSST and VXUS?
FSST and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 1.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7957 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSST or VXUS?
FSST yields 1.55% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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