FXI vs VXUS
iShares China Large-Cap 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 | FXI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.73% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $4.2B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.14% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -10.86% | +15.00% | |
| 1Y Return | -5.43% | +26.87% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.19% | +19.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.73% | +9.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -73.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 5, 2004 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FXI vs VXUS Performance
iShares China Large-Cap ETF (FXI) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FXI returned -5.43% while VXUS returned +26.87%. Year to date, FXI is down 10.86% versus a gain of 15.00% for VXUS.
Over three years, FXI compounded at +11.19% per year against +19.79% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -0.73% and +9.26% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.88% annualized vs +3.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.4% 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 -73.3% for FXI 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FXI charges 0.73% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $73 vs $5 annually, a gap of $68 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FXI currently yields 2.14% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FXI and VXUS share 29 holdings out of 7883 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FXI or VXUS?
FXI has an expense ratio of 0.73% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $68 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FXI or VXUS?
Over the past year FXI returned -5.43% vs +26.87% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), FXI annualized +3.75% vs +4.88% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FXI or VXUS?
FXI has been the more volatile fund at 26.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FXI -73.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FXI and VXUS?
FXI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FXI and VXUS?
FXI and VXUS share 29 common holdings with a 1.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7883 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FXI or VXUS?
FXI yields 2.14% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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