JXI vs VXUS
iShares Global Utilities 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 | JXI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.37% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $308M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.43% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 83 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +5.73% | +14.33% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.93% | +25.32% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.78% | +20.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.34% | +9.72% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -52.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 12, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
JXI vs VXUS Performance
iShares Global Utilities ETF (JXI) 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 JXI returned +10.93% while VXUS returned +25.32%. Year to date, JXI is up 5.73% versus a gain of 14.33% for VXUS.
Over three years, JXI compounded at +16.78% per year against +20.47% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.34% and +9.72% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.84% annualized vs +3.38%. 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 JXI. 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 -52.9% for JXI 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JXI charges 0.37% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $37 vs $5 annually, a gap of $32 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JXI currently yields 2.43% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
JXI and VXUS share 26 holdings out of 7909 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, JXI or VXUS?
JXI has an expense ratio of 0.37% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $32 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JXI or VXUS?
Over the past year JXI returned +10.93% vs +25.32% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), JXI annualized +3.38% vs +4.84% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JXI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.5% for JXI. Worst drawdown: JXI -52.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both JXI and VXUS?
JXI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JXI and VXUS?
JXI and VXUS share 26 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7909 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JXI or VXUS?
JXI yields 2.43% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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