KAT vs VXUS
Scharf 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 | KAT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $675M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.48% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 38 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.96% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.03% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Scharf Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 30, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
KAT vs VXUS Performance
Scharf ETF (KAT) is a ETF from Scharf Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KAT returned +8.03% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, KAT is up 6.96% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.7% for KAT. 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 -9.3% for KAT 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KAT charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KAT currently yields 0.48% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
KAT and VXUS share 4 holdings out of 7890 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KAT or VXUS?
KAT has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KAT or VXUS?
Over the past year KAT returned +8.03% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KAT or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.7% for KAT. Worst drawdown: KAT -9.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both KAT and VXUS?
KAT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KAT and VXUS?
KAT and VXUS share 4 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7890 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KAT or VXUS?
KAT yields 0.48% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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