FWD vs VXUS
AB Disruptors ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FWD delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FWD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.9B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.08% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 138 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +23.53% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +43.11% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +34.46% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | AllianceBernstein L.P. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 22, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FWD vs VXUS Performance
AB Disruptors ETF (FWD) is a ETF from AllianceBernstein L.P. and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FWD returned +43.11% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, FWD is up 23.53% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, FWD compounded at +34.46% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, FWD has the edge at +34.21% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FWD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.3% 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 -29.0% for FWD 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FWD charges 0.65% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $5 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FWD currently yields 0.08% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FWD and VXUS share 25 holdings out of 7944 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FWD or VXUS?
FWD has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FWD or VXUS?
Over the past year FWD returned +43.11% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so FWD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), FWD annualized +34.21% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FWD or VXUS?
FWD has been the more volatile fund at 24.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FWD -29.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FWD and VXUS?
FWD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FWD and VXUS?
FWD and VXUS share 25 common holdings with a 7.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7944 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FWD or VXUS?
FWD yields 0.08% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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