GARP vs VXUS
iShares MSCI USA Quality GARP ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. GARP delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GARP | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.6B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.26% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 135 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +21.76% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +36.70% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +32.10% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +18.30% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -31.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 14, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GARP vs VXUS Performance
iShares MSCI USA Quality GARP ETF (GARP) 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 GARP returned +36.70% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, GARP is up 21.76% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, GARP compounded at +32.10% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +18.30% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, GARP has the edge at +20.71% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GARP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.5% 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 -31.3% for GARP 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
GARP charges 0.15% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $5 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GARP currently yields 0.26% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GARP and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7992 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GARP | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORCL | 1.18% | 0.00% | 1.18% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GARP or VXUS?
GARP has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GARP or VXUS?
Over the past year GARP returned +36.70% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so GARP leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), GARP annualized +20.71% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GARP or VXUS?
GARP has been the more volatile fund at 20.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GARP -31.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GARP and VXUS?
GARP 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 GARP and VXUS?
GARP and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7992 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GARP or VXUS?
GARP yields 0.26% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.