JSML vs VXUS
JSML vs VXUS
Janus Henderson Small Cap Growth Alpha ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. JSML delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | JSML | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $322M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.86% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 122 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +25.22% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.26% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.76% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.92% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Janus Henderson Investors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 23, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
JSML vs VXUS Performance
Janus Henderson Small Cap Growth Alpha ETF (JSML) is a ETF from Janus Henderson Investors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JSML returned +35.26% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, JSML is up 25.22% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, JSML compounded at +18.76% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.92% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, JSML has the edge at +13.70% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
JSML 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 -39.6% for JSML 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JSML charges 0.30% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $5 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JSML currently yields 0.86% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
JSML and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7982 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, JSML or VXUS?
JSML has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JSML or VXUS?
Over the past year JSML returned +35.26% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so JSML leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), JSML annualized +13.70% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JSML or VXUS?
JSML has been the more volatile fund at 23.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: JSML -39.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both JSML and VXUS?
JSML and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JSML and VXUS?
JSML and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7982 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JSML or VXUS?
JSML yields 0.86% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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