MSSS vs VXUS
Monarch Select Subsector Index 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 | MSSS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.43% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $145M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.28% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +21.17% | +15.00% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.69% | +26.87% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Monarch Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 12, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MSSS vs VXUS Performance
Monarch Select Subsector Index ETF (MSSS) is a ETF from Monarch Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSSS returned +24.69% while VXUS returned +26.87%. Year to date, MSSS is up 21.17% versus a gain of 15.00% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MSSS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.9% 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 -19.1% for MSSS 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSSS charges 1.43% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $143 vs $5 annually, a gap of $138 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSSS currently yields 0.28% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MSSS and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7871 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, MSSS or VXUS?
MSSS has an expense ratio of 1.43% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $138 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSSS or VXUS?
Over the past year MSSS returned +24.69% vs +26.87% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MSSS annualized +17.03% vs +4.88% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSSS or VXUS?
MSSS has been the more volatile fund at 15.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MSSS -19.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MSSS and VXUS?
MSSS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSSS and VXUS?
MSSS and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7871 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSSS or VXUS?
MSSS yields 0.28% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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