MEXX vs VTI
Direxion Daily MSCI Mexico Bull 3X ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. MEXX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MEXX | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.23% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $20M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.46% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +11.48% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +56.81% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +0.63% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.87% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 71.6% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -95.8% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | May 3, 2017 | May 24, 2001 |
MEXX vs VTI Performance
Direxion Daily MSCI Mexico Bull 3X ETF (MEXX) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MEXX returned +56.81% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, MEXX is up 11.48% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, MEXX compounded at +0.63% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +10.87% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs -6.59%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MEXX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 71.6% compared with 15.4% for VTI. 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 -95.8% for MEXX and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MEXX charges 1.23% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $123 vs $3 annually, a gap of $120 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MEXX currently yields 1.46% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
MEXX and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2788 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, MEXX or VTI?
MEXX has an expense ratio of 1.23% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $120 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MEXX or VTI?
Over the past year MEXX returned +56.81% vs +22.39% for VTI, so MEXX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MEXX annualized -6.59% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MEXX or VTI?
MEXX has been the more volatile fund at 71.6% annualized versus 15.4% for VTI. Worst drawdown: MEXX -95.8% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both MEXX and VTI?
MEXX and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MEXX and VTI?
MEXX and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2788 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MEXX or VTI?
MEXX yields 1.46% while VTI yields 1.07%, so MEXX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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