MEM vs VXUS
Matthews Emerging Markets Equity Active ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. MEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $53M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.88% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 79 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +18.62% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +36.67% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.51% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Matthews Asia Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 13, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MEM vs VXUS Performance
Matthews Emerging Markets Equity Active ETF (MEM) is a ETF from Matthews Asia Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MEM returned +36.67% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MEM is up 18.62% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, MEM compounded at +20.51% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, MEM has the edge at +18.34% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.0% 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 -19.1% for MEM 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MEM charges 0.79% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $5 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MEM currently yields 2.88% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MEM and VXUS share 53 holdings out of 7880 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MEM or VXUS?
MEM has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MEM or VXUS?
Over the past year MEM returned +36.67% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so MEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), MEM annualized +18.34% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MEM or VXUS?
MEM has been the more volatile fund at 18.0% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MEM -19.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MEM and VXUS?
MEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MEM and VXUS?
MEM and VXUS share 53 common holdings with a 8.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7880 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MEM or VXUS?
MEM yields 2.88% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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