KWT vs VXUS
iShares MSCI Kuwait 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 | KWT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.74% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $72M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.66% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 41 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -2.04% | +15.24% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.98% | +26.32% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.32% | +19.85% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.00% | +9.23% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 1, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
KWT vs VXUS Performance
iShares MSCI Kuwait ETF (KWT) 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 KWT returned -1.98% while VXUS returned +26.32%. Year to date, KWT is down 2.04% versus a gain of 15.24% for VXUS.
Over three years, KWT compounded at +9.32% per year against +19.85% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.00% and +9.23% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, KWT has the edge at +11.92% annualized vs +4.89%. 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 13.8% for KWT. 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 -24.4% for KWT 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 0.51. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KWT charges 0.74% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $74 vs $5 annually, a gap of $69 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KWT currently yields 5.66% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
KWT and VXUS share 15 holdings out of 7882 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KWT or VXUS?
KWT has an expense ratio of 0.74% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $69 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KWT or VXUS?
Over the past year KWT returned -1.98% vs +26.32% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), KWT annualized +11.92% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KWT or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.8% for KWT. Worst drawdown: KWT -24.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both KWT and VXUS?
KWT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.51, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KWT and VXUS?
KWT and VXUS share 15 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7882 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KWT or VXUS?
KWT yields 5.66% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so KWT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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