GSIB vs VXUS
Themes Global Systemically Important Banks ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. GSIB delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GSIB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $49M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.56% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 32 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +22.28% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +41.42% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Themes ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 15, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GSIB vs VXUS Performance
Themes Global Systemically Important Banks ETF (GSIB) is a ETF from Themes ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GSIB returned +41.42% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, GSIB is up 22.28% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.3% for GSIB. 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 -17.7% for GSIB 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GSIB charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GSIB currently yields 1.56% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GSIB and VXUS share 11 holdings out of 7887 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GSIB or VXUS?
GSIB has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GSIB or VXUS?
Over the past year GSIB returned +41.42% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so GSIB leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), GSIB annualized +46.78% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GSIB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.3% for GSIB. Worst drawdown: GSIB -17.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GSIB and VXUS?
GSIB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GSIB and VXUS?
GSIB and VXUS share 11 common holdings with a 2.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7887 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GSIB or VXUS?
GSIB yields 1.56% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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