MNA vs VXUS
MNA vs VXUS
NYLI Merger Arbitrage 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 | MNA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.77% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $252M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.21% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.26% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.29% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.80% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.33% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 17, 2009 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MNA vs VXUS Performance
NYLI Merger Arbitrage ETF (MNA) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MNA returned +3.29% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MNA is up 2.26% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, MNA compounded at +5.80% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.33% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +2.69%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 4.8% for MNA. 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 -16.7% for MNA 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MNA charges 0.77% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $77 vs $5 annually, a gap of $72 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MNA currently yields 1.21% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MNA and VXUS share 12 holdings out of 7909 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MNA | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TECK:CA | 4.93% | 0.06% | 4.87% |
| ARX:CA | 3.05% | 0.02% | 3.03% |
| SDR:LN | 2.18% | 0.01% | 2.17% |
| FCR.UN:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| INPST:AS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ALLFG:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BLX:APH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| AAUC:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SNR:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 3593:TK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings MNA shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MNA or VXUS?
MNA has an expense ratio of 0.77% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $72 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MNA or VXUS?
Over the past year MNA returned +3.29% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), MNA annualized +2.69% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MNA or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 4.8% for MNA. Worst drawdown: MNA -16.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MNA and VXUS?
MNA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MNA and VXUS?
MNA and VXUS share 12 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7909 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MNA or VXUS?
MNA yields 1.21% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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