MMAX vs VXUS
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Mar 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 | MMAX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $73M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.77% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +3.91% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.31% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 1.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -1.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MMAX vs VXUS Performance
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Mar ETF (MMAX) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MMAX returned +5.31% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, MMAX is up 3.91% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 1.5% for MMAX. 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 -1.9% for MMAX 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 0.26. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MMAX charges 0.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $5 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MMAX currently yields 0.77% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MMAX and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7864 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, MMAX or VXUS?
MMAX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MMAX or VXUS?
Over the past year MMAX returned +5.31% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), MMAX annualized +6.30% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MMAX or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 1.5% for MMAX. Worst drawdown: MMAX -1.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MMAX and VXUS?
MMAX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.26, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MMAX and VXUS?
MMAX and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7864 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MMAX or VXUS?
MMAX yields 0.77% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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