NBSM vs VXUS
Neuberger Berman Small-Mid Cap 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 | NBSM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $114M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.36% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 74 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.17% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.27% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Neuberger Berman | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 20, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
NBSM vs VXUS Performance
Neuberger Berman Small-Mid Cap ETF (NBSM) is a ETF from Neuberger Berman and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NBSM returned +16.27% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, NBSM is up 15.17% 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 14.8% for NBSM. 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 -25.2% for NBSM 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 0.56. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NBSM charges 0.65% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $5 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NBSM currently yields 0.36% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
NBSM and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 7931 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, NBSM or VXUS?
NBSM has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NBSM or VXUS?
Over the past year NBSM returned +16.27% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), NBSM annualized +6.33% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NBSM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.8% for NBSM. Worst drawdown: NBSM -25.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both NBSM and VXUS?
NBSM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.56, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NBSM and VXUS?
NBSM and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7931 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NBSM or VXUS?
NBSM yields 0.36% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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