MDPL vs VXUS
Monarch Dividend Plus Index 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 | MDPL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $58M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.66% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 32 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.01% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.70% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Monarch Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 12, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MDPL vs VXUS Performance
Monarch Dividend Plus Index ETF (MDPL) is a ETF from Monarch Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MDPL returned +13.70% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, MDPL is up 9.01% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MDPL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.5% 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 -14.2% for MDPL 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 0.37. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MDPL charges 1.24% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $124 vs $5 annually, a gap of $119 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MDPL currently yields 1.66% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MDPL 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, MDPL or VXUS?
MDPL has an expense ratio of 1.24% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $119 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MDPL or VXUS?
Over the past year MDPL returned +13.70% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MDPL annualized +7.23% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MDPL or VXUS?
MDPL has been the more volatile fund at 15.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MDPL -14.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MDPL and VXUS?
MDPL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.37, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MDPL and VXUS?
MDPL and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7891 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MDPL or VXUS?
MDPL yields 1.66% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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