GLOF vs VXUS
iShares Global Equity Factor 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLOF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $225M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.58% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 708 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.18% | +15.23% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.09% | +26.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.38% | +20.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.18% | +9.66% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 28, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GLOF vs VXUS Performance
iShares Global Equity Factor ETF (GLOF) 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 GLOF returned +25.09% while VXUS returned +26.78%. Year to date, GLOF is up 16.18% versus a gain of 15.23% for VXUS.
Over three years, GLOF compounded at +23.38% per year against +20.86% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.18% and +9.66% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, GLOF has the edge at +9.29% annualized vs +4.89%. 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 15.0% for GLOF. 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 -36.7% for GLOF 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 0.92. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLOF charges 0.20% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $5 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLOF currently yields 1.58% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GLOF and VXUS share 274 holdings out of 8227 unique holdings combined, representing a 11.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLOF or VXUS?
GLOF has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLOF or VXUS?
Over the past year GLOF returned +25.09% vs +26.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), GLOF annualized +9.29% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLOF or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 15.0% for GLOF. Worst drawdown: GLOF -36.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GLOF and VXUS?
GLOF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.92, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between GLOF and VXUS?
GLOF and VXUS share 274 common holdings with a 11.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8227 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLOF or VXUS?
GLOF yields 1.58% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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