FTLS vs VXUS
First Trust Long/Short 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 | FTLS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.38% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.5B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.88% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 363 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +8.27% | +15.37% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.11% | +26.20% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.68% | +20.32% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.44% | +9.61% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 8, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FTLS vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Long/Short Equity ETF (FTLS) 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 FTLS returned +14.11% while VXUS returned +26.20%. Year to date, FTLS is up 8.27% versus a gain of 15.37% for VXUS.
Over three years, FTLS compounded at +14.68% per year against +20.32% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +10.44% and +9.61% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, FTLS has the edge at +8.68% annualized vs +4.89%. 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 8.8% for FTLS. 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 -20.5% for FTLS 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTLS charges 1.38% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $138 vs $5 annually, a gap of $133 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTLS currently yields 0.88% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FTLS and VXUS share 63 holdings out of 8160 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTLS or VXUS?
FTLS has an expense ratio of 1.38% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $133 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTLS or VXUS?
Over the past year FTLS returned +14.11% vs +26.20% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FTLS annualized +8.68% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTLS or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 8.8% for FTLS. Worst drawdown: FTLS -20.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FTLS and VXUS?
FTLS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTLS and VXUS?
FTLS and VXUS share 63 common holdings with a 3.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8160 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTLS or VXUS?
FTLS yields 0.88% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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