MSMR vs VXUS
McElhenny Sheffield Managed Risk 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 | MSMR | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.06% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $183M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.83% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.36% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.35% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.49% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Aptus Capital Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 16, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MSMR vs VXUS Performance
McElhenny Sheffield Managed Risk ETF (MSMR) is a ETF from Aptus Capital Advisors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSMR returned +8.35% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, MSMR is up 1.36% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, MSMR compounded at +13.49% per year against +19.53% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, MSMR has the edge at +8.40% annualized vs +4.83%. 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 10.4% for MSMR. 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 -14.9% for MSMR 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 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSMR charges 1.06% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $106 vs $5 annually, a gap of $101 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSMR currently yields 1.83% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MSMR 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, MSMR or VXUS?
MSMR has an expense ratio of 1.06% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $101 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSMR or VXUS?
Over the past year MSMR returned +8.35% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MSMR annualized +8.40% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSMR or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 10.4% for MSMR. Worst drawdown: MSMR -14.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MSMR and VXUS?
MSMR and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSMR and VXUS?
MSMR and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7866 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSMR or VXUS?
MSMR yields 1.83% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.