GF vs VXUS
New Germany Fund Inc. 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 | GF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.10% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $207M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.27% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 53 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.59% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.53% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.17% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.52% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -85.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | DWS ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 1990 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GF vs VXUS Performance
New Germany Fund Inc. (GF) is a ETF from DWS ETF Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GF returned +0.53% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, GF is up 2.59% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, GF compounded at +11.17% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -3.52% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +1.50%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.8% 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 -85.0% for GF 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GF charges 1.10% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $110 vs $5 annually, a gap of $105 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GF currently yields 2.27% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GF and VXUS share 33 holdings out of 7887 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GF or VXUS?
GF has an expense ratio of 1.10% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $105 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GF or VXUS?
Over the past year GF returned +0.53% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), GF annualized +1.50% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GF or VXUS?
GF has been the more volatile fund at 26.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: GF -85.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GF and VXUS?
GF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GF and VXUS?
GF and VXUS share 33 common holdings with a 0.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7887 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GF or VXUS?
GF yields 2.27% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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