IQSI vs VXUS
NYLI Candriam 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 | IQSI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $275M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.69% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 648 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.31% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.64% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.24% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.41% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -31.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 17, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
IQSI vs VXUS Performance
NYLI Candriam International Equity ETF (IQSI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IQSI returned +20.64% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, IQSI is up 13.31% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, IQSI compounded at +17.24% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.41% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, IQSI has the edge at +9.61% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IQSI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.9% 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 -31.9% for IQSI 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
IQSI 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, IQSI currently yields 2.69% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
IQSI and VXUS share 411 holdings out of 8019 unique holdings combined, representing a 20.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IQSI or VXUS?
IQSI 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, IQSI or VXUS?
Over the past year IQSI returned +20.64% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), IQSI annualized +9.61% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IQSI or VXUS?
IQSI has been the more volatile fund at 16.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: IQSI -31.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both IQSI and VXUS?
IQSI 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 IQSI and VXUS?
IQSI and VXUS share 411 common holdings with a 20.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8019 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IQSI or VXUS?
IQSI yields 2.69% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so IQSI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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