MSDD vs VXUS
MSDD vs VXUS
GraniteShares 2x Short MSTR Daily ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. MSDD delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MSDD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -45.26% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +70.78% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 133.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -84.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | GraniteShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 9, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MSDD vs VXUS Performance
GraniteShares 2x Short MSTR Daily ETF (MSDD) is a ETF from GraniteShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSDD returned +70.78% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MSDD is down 45.26% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MSDD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 133.8% 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 -84.9% for MSDD 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 -0.30. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSDD charges 1.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $150 vs $5 annually, a gap of $145 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSDD currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MSDD or VXUS?
MSDD has an expense ratio of 1.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $145 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSDD or VXUS?
Over the past year MSDD returned +70.78% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so MSDD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), MSDD annualized +87.92% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSDD or VXUS?
MSDD has been the more volatile fund at 133.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MSDD -84.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MSDD and VXUS?
MSDD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.30, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSDD or VXUS?
MSDD yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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