ISCF vs VXUS
iShares International Small-Cap 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ISCF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $652M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.73% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,188 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.37% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.38% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.25% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.24% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 28, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ISCF vs VXUS Performance
iShares International Small-Cap Equity Factor ETF (ISCF) 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 ISCF returned +19.38% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, ISCF is up 11.37% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, ISCF compounded at +18.25% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.24% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, ISCF has the edge at +7.46% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ISCF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.1% 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 -43.6% for ISCF 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 0.94. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ISCF charges 0.24% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $5 annually, a gap of $19 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ISCF currently yields 3.73% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ISCF and VXUS share 559 holdings out of 8313 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ISCF or VXUS?
ISCF has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $19 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ISCF or VXUS?
Over the past year ISCF returned +19.38% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), ISCF annualized +7.46% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ISCF or VXUS?
ISCF has been the more volatile fund at 16.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ISCF -43.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ISCF and VXUS?
ISCF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.94, 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 ISCF and VXUS?
ISCF and VXUS share 559 common holdings with a 2.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8313 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ISCF or VXUS?
ISCF yields 3.73% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so ISCF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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