MSTX vs VXUS
Defiance Daily Target 2X Long MSTR 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 | MSTX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.31% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $142M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 41.07% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -79.44% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | -97.67% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 150.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Defiance ETFs, LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 14, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MSTX vs VXUS Performance
Defiance Daily Target 2X Long MSTR ETF (MSTX) is a ETF from Defiance ETFs, LLC and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MSTX returned -97.67% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, MSTX is down 79.44% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MSTX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 150.1% 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 -99.5% for MSTX 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 0.03. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MSTX charges 1.31% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $131 vs $5 annually, a gap of $126 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MSTX currently yields 41.07% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MSTX and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7863 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, MSTX or VXUS?
MSTX has an expense ratio of 1.31% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $126 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MSTX or VXUS?
Over the past year MSTX returned -97.67% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MSTX annualized -76.39% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MSTX or VXUS?
MSTX has been the more volatile fund at 150.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MSTX -99.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MSTX and VXUS?
MSTX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.03, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MSTX and VXUS?
MSTX and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7863 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MSTX or VXUS?
MSTX yields 41.07% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MSTX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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