NSI vs VXUS
National Security Emerging Markets Index ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. NSI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | NSI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $42M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.23% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 105 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.67% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.79% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | National Security Index | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 6, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
NSI vs VXUS Performance
National Security Emerging Markets Index ETF (NSI) is a ETF from National Security Index and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NSI returned +27.79% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, NSI is up 11.67% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 13.0% for NSI. 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 -16.6% for NSI 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NSI charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NSI currently yields 1.23% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
NSI and VXUS share 40 holdings out of 7928 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NSI or VXUS?
NSI has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NSI or VXUS?
Over the past year NSI returned +27.79% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so NSI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), NSI annualized +20.85% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NSI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.0% for NSI. Worst drawdown: NSI -16.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both NSI and VXUS?
NSI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NSI and VXUS?
NSI and VXUS share 40 common holdings with a 2.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7928 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NSI or VXUS?
NSI yields 1.23% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.