ISTM vs VXUS
iShares Strategic Metals ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. ISTM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ISTM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.47% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $31M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 14.27% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 62 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.58% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +48.41% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +34.85% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 26, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ISTM vs VXUS Performance
iShares Strategic Metals ETF (ISTM) 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 ISTM returned +48.41% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, ISTM is up 7.58% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, ISTM compounded at +34.85% per year against +20.98% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, ISTM has the edge at +34.85% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ISTM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.0% 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 -22.5% for ISTM 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 0.22. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ISTM charges 0.47% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $47 vs $5 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ISTM currently yields 14.27% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ISTM and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7870 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in ISTM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| BNP:PA | 0.90% | 0.25% | 0.65% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ISTM or VXUS?
ISTM has an expense ratio of 0.47% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ISTM or VXUS?
Over the past year ISTM returned +48.41% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so ISTM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), ISTM annualized +34.85% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ISTM or VXUS?
ISTM has been the more volatile fund at 23.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ISTM -22.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ISTM and VXUS?
ISTM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.22, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ISTM and VXUS?
ISTM and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7870 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ISTM or VXUS?
ISTM yields 14.27% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so ISTM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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