LSAF vs VXUS
LSAF vs VXUS
LeaderShares AlphaFactor US Core Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. LSAF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LSAF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $123M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.60% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 102 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +23.11% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.53% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.14% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.64% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -41.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | LeaderShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 1, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
LSAF vs VXUS Performance
LeaderShares AlphaFactor US Core Equity ETF (LSAF) is a ETF from LeaderShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LSAF returned +33.53% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, LSAF is up 23.11% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, LSAF compounded at +20.14% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.64% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, LSAF has the edge at +11.51% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LSAF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.3% 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 -41.7% for LSAF 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LSAF 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, LSAF currently yields 0.60% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
LSAF and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7960 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in LSAF | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| KR | 0.85% | 0.00% | 0.85% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LSAF or VXUS?
LSAF 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, LSAF or VXUS?
Over the past year LSAF returned +33.53% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so LSAF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), LSAF annualized +11.51% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LSAF or VXUS?
LSAF has been the more volatile fund at 19.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: LSAF -41.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both LSAF and VXUS?
LSAF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LSAF and VXUS?
LSAF and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7960 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LSAF or VXUS?
LSAF yields 0.60% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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