FVC vs VXUS
FVC vs VXUS
First Trust Dorsey Wright Dynamic Focus 5 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 | FVC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.87% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $104M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.96% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.09% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.82% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.22% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.25% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -31.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 8, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FVC vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Dorsey Wright Dynamic Focus 5 ETF (FVC) 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 FVC returned +18.82% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FVC is up 13.09% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FVC compounded at +9.22% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.25% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, FVC has the edge at +8.04% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 14.8% for FVC. 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 -31.0% for FVC 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FVC charges 0.87% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $87 vs $5 annually, a gap of $82 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FVC currently yields 1.96% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FVC and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7866 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, FVC or VXUS?
FVC has an expense ratio of 0.87% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $82 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FVC or VXUS?
Over the past year FVC returned +18.82% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), FVC annualized +8.04% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FVC or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.8% for FVC. Worst drawdown: FVC -31.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FVC and VXUS?
FVC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FVC and VXUS?
FVC and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FVC or VXUS?
FVC yields 1.96% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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