LSAT vs VXUS
LeaderShares AlphaFactor Tactical Focused 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 | LSAT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.99% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $65M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.65% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 34 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +19.10% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.32% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.16% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.01% | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | LeaderShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 26, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
LSAT vs VXUS Performance
LeaderShares AlphaFactor Tactical Focused ETF (LSAT) is a ETF from LeaderShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LSAT returned +18.32% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, LSAT is up 19.10% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, LSAT compounded at +11.16% per year against +19.53% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.01% and +9.03% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, LSAT has the edge at +13.38% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LSAT 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 -20.5% for LSAT 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
LSAT charges 0.99% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $99 vs $5 annually, a gap of $94 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LSAT currently yields 1.65% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
LSAT and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7891 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LSAT or VXUS?
LSAT has an expense ratio of 0.99% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $94 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LSAT or VXUS?
Over the past year LSAT returned +18.32% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), LSAT annualized +13.38% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LSAT or VXUS?
LSAT has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: LSAT -20.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both LSAT and VXUS?
LSAT 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 LSAT and VXUS?
LSAT and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7891 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LSAT or VXUS?
LSAT yields 1.65% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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