MZZ vs VXUS
ProShares UltraShort MidCap 400 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MZZ | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $4M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.57% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -23.20% | +15.52% | |
| 1Y Return | -26.23% | +26.73% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -22.77% | +20.35% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -16.26% | +9.40% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 34.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 11, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MZZ vs VXUS Performance
ProShares UltraShort MidCap 400 (MZZ) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MZZ returned -26.23% while VXUS returned +26.73%. Year to date, MZZ is down 23.20% versus a gain of 15.52% for VXUS.
Over three years, MZZ compounded at -22.77% per year against +20.35% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -16.26% and +9.40% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.90% annualized vs -30.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MZZ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 34.9% 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 -100.0% for MZZ 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 -0.79. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MZZ charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MZZ currently yields 5.57% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MZZ or VXUS?
MZZ has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MZZ or VXUS?
Over the past year MZZ returned -26.23% vs +26.73% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), MZZ annualized -30.91% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MZZ or VXUS?
MZZ has been the more volatile fund at 34.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MZZ -100.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MZZ and VXUS?
MZZ and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, MZZ or VXUS?
MZZ yields 5.57% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so MZZ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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