MEXX vs VXUS
MEXX vs VXUS
Direxion Daily MSCI Mexico Bull 3X ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. MEXX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MEXX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.23% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $20M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.46% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +21.35% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +71.36% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.93% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.32% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 71.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -95.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | May 3, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MEXX vs VXUS Performance
Direxion Daily MSCI Mexico Bull 3X ETF (MEXX) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MEXX returned +71.36% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MEXX is up 21.35% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, MEXX compounded at +2.93% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +14.32% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -5.74%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MEXX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 71.5% 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 -95.8% for MEXX 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 0.73. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MEXX charges 1.23% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $123 vs $5 annually, a gap of $118 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MEXX currently yields 1.46% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MEXX and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7866 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 VXUS?
MEXX has an expense ratio of 1.23% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $118 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MEXX or VXUS?
Over the past year MEXX returned +71.36% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so MEXX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MEXX annualized -5.74% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MEXX or VXUS?
MEXX has been the more volatile fund at 71.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MEXX -95.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MEXX and VXUS?
MEXX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MEXX and VXUS?
MEXX and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MEXX or VXUS?
MEXX yields 1.46% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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