MTBA vs VXUS
Simplify MBS 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 | MTBA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.57% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 8 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.11% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.44% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 6, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MTBA vs VXUS Performance
Simplify MBS ETF (MTBA) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MTBA returned +2.44% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MTBA is down 0.11% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 3.8% for MTBA. 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 -3.5% for MTBA 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MTBA charges 0.15% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $5 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MTBA currently yields 5.57% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MTBA and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7870 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, MTBA or VXUS?
MTBA has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MTBA or VXUS?
Over the past year MTBA returned +2.44% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), MTBA annualized +4.62% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MTBA or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 3.8% for MTBA. Worst drawdown: MTBA -3.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MTBA and VXUS?
MTBA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MTBA and VXUS?
MTBA and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7870 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MTBA or VXUS?
MTBA yields 5.57% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MTBA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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