GSIE vs VXUS
Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity 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 | GSIE | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $6.1B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.50% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 673 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.11% | +15.23% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.44% | +26.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.52% | +20.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.27% | +9.66% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Goldman Sachs Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 6, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
GSIE vs VXUS Performance
Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta International Equity ETF (GSIE) is a ETF from Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GSIE returned +21.44% while VXUS returned +26.78%. Year to date, GSIE is up 13.11% versus a gain of 15.23% for VXUS.
Over three years, GSIE compounded at +19.52% per year against +20.86% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +9.27% and +9.66% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, GSIE has the edge at +7.92% 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 14.5% for GSIE. 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 -37.2% for GSIE 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 0.97. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GSIE charges 0.25% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $5 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GSIE currently yields 2.50% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
GSIE and VXUS share 498 holdings out of 8010 unique holdings combined, representing a 34.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GSIE or VXUS?
GSIE has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GSIE or VXUS?
Over the past year GSIE returned +21.44% vs +26.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), GSIE annualized +7.92% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GSIE or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.5% for GSIE. Worst drawdown: GSIE -37.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both GSIE and VXUS?
GSIE and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.97, 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 GSIE and VXUS?
GSIE and VXUS share 498 common holdings with a 34.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8010 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GSIE or VXUS?
GSIE yields 2.50% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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