NPCT vs VXUS
NPCT vs VXUS
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund 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 | NPCT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.38% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | - | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.27% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 131 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.92% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.22% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.02% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.34% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 27, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
NPCT vs VXUS Performance
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund (NPCT) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NPCT returned -0.22% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, NPCT is up 2.92% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, NPCT compounded at +12.02% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -3.34% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -3.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NPCT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -46.8% for NPCT 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NPCT charges 1.38% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $138 vs $5 annually, a gap of $133 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NPCT currently yields 11.27% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
NPCT and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7867 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, NPCT or VXUS?
NPCT has an expense ratio of 1.38% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $133 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NPCT or VXUS?
Over the past year NPCT returned -0.22% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), NPCT annualized -3.06% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NPCT or VXUS?
NPCT has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: NPCT -46.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both NPCT and VXUS?
NPCT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NPCT and VXUS?
NPCT and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7867 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NPCT or VXUS?
NPCT yields 11.27% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so NPCT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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