FTDS vs VXUS
FTDS vs VXUS
First Trust Dividend 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 | FTDS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $38M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.67% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.39% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.24% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.93% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.08% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -54.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FTDS vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Dividend Strength ETF (FTDS) 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 FTDS returned +25.24% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FTDS is up 15.39% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FTDS compounded at +15.93% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.08% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, FTDS has the edge at +6.77% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTDS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.5% 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 -54.7% for FTDS 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
FTDS 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, FTDS currently yields 1.67% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FTDS and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7911 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, FTDS or VXUS?
FTDS 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, FTDS or VXUS?
Over the past year FTDS returned +25.24% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), FTDS annualized +6.77% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTDS or VXUS?
FTDS has been the more volatile fund at 17.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FTDS -54.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FTDS and VXUS?
FTDS 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 FTDS and VXUS?
FTDS and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7911 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTDS or VXUS?
FTDS yields 1.67% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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