MUNC vs VXUS
MUNC vs VXUS
Northern Trust 2045 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder 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 | MUNC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $8M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.50% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 151 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.10% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.72% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Northern Trust Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 28, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MUNC vs VXUS Performance
Northern Trust 2045 Tax-Exempt Distributing Ladder ETF (MUNC) is a ETF from Northern Trust Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MUNC returned +3.72% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, MUNC is down 0.10% 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 4.6% for MUNC. 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 -3.2% for MUNC 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MUNC charges 0.18% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $5 annually, a gap of $13 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MUNC currently yields 2.50% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MUNC and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7889 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, MUNC or VXUS?
MUNC has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $13 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MUNC or VXUS?
Over the past year MUNC returned +3.72% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MUNC or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 4.6% for MUNC. Worst drawdown: MUNC -3.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MUNC and VXUS?
MUNC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MUNC and VXUS?
MUNC and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7889 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MUNC or VXUS?
MUNC yields 2.50% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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