KOKU vs VXUS
Xtrackers MSCI Kokusai Equity 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 | KOKU | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $819M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.43% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,144 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.30% | +15.44% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.21% | +26.36% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.95% | +20.98% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.09% | +9.68% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 7, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
KOKU vs VXUS Performance
Xtrackers MSCI Kokusai Equity ETF (KOKU) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KOKU returned +21.21% while VXUS returned +26.36%. Year to date, KOKU is up 13.30% versus a gain of 15.44% for VXUS.
Over three years, KOKU compounded at +21.95% per year against +20.98% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.09% and +9.68% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, KOKU has the edge at +18.29% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KOKU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% 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 -25.8% for KOKU 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KOKU charges 0.09% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $5 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KOKU currently yields 1.43% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
KOKU and VXUS share 437 holdings out of 8541 unique holdings combined, representing a 17.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KOKU or VXUS?
KOKU has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KOKU or VXUS?
Over the past year KOKU returned +21.21% vs +26.36% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), KOKU annualized +18.29% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KOKU or VXUS?
KOKU has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: KOKU -25.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both KOKU and VXUS?
KOKU and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KOKU and VXUS?
KOKU and VXUS share 437 common holdings with a 17.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8541 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KOKU or VXUS?
KOKU yields 1.43% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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