MRGR vs VXUS
ProShares Merger 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 | MRGR | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $16M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.26% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 50 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.13% | +15.00% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.78% | +26.87% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.39% | +19.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.72% | +9.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2012 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MRGR vs VXUS Performance
ProShares Merger ETF (MRGR) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MRGR returned +7.78% while VXUS returned +26.87%. Year to date, MRGR is up 2.13% versus a gain of 15.00% for VXUS.
Over three years, MRGR compounded at +7.39% per year against +19.79% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.72% and +9.26% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.88% annualized vs +2.00%. 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 8.3% for MRGR. 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 -22.5% for MRGR 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 0.07. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MRGR charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MRGR currently yields 1.26% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MRGR and VXUS share 9 holdings out of 7892 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MRGR or VXUS?
MRGR has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MRGR or VXUS?
Over the past year MRGR returned +7.78% vs +26.87% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), MRGR annualized +2.00% vs +4.88% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MRGR or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 8.3% for MRGR. Worst drawdown: MRGR -22.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MRGR and VXUS?
MRGR and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.07, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MRGR and VXUS?
MRGR and VXUS share 9 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7892 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MRGR or VXUS?
MRGR yields 1.26% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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