MSFU vs VXUS

Quick Verdict

VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.

Lower Fees: VXUSHigher Returns: VXUSMore Diversified: VXUS

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricMSFUVXUSWinner
Expense Ratio0.98%0.05%
AUM$773M$156.5B
Dividend Yield13.70%2.60%
Holdings98,747
YTD Return-2.28%+14.57%
1Y Return-23.46%+27.82%
3Y Return (annualized)+11.75%+19.27%
5Y Return (annualized)-+9.28%
Volatility (annualized)51.5%15.1%
Max Drawdown-62.4%-39.9%
Fund FamilyDirexion Shares ETF TrustVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionSep 7, 2022Jan 26, 2011

MSFU vs VXUS Performance

Direxion Daily MSFT Bull 2X ETF (MSFU) 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 MSFU returned -23.46% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MSFU is down 2.28% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.

Over three years, MSFU compounded at +11.75% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, MSFU has the edge at +16.71% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

MSFU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 51.5% 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 -62.4% for MSFU 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 0.21. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.

Fees and Cost Over Time

MSFU charges 0.98% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $98 vs $5 annually, a gap of $93 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSFU currently yields 13.70% against 2.60% for VXUS.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

MSFU 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, MSFU or VXUS?

MSFU has an expense ratio of 0.98% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $93 per year of difference.

Which performed better, MSFU or VXUS?

Over the past year MSFU returned -23.46% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), MSFU annualized +16.71% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, MSFU or VXUS?

MSFU has been the more volatile fund at 51.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MSFU -62.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.

Should I hold both MSFU and VXUS?

MSFU and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.21, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

What is the holdings overlap between MSFU and VXUS?

MSFU and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, MSFU or VXUS?

MSFU yields 13.70% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MSFU currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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