NULG vs VXUS
Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth 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 | NULG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.26% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.7B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.10% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 66 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +18.74% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.68% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.64% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.94% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 13, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
NULG vs VXUS Performance
Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF (NULG) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NULG returned +20.68% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, NULG is up 18.74% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, NULG compounded at +23.64% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.94% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, NULG has the edge at +18.92% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NULG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.9% 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 -36.2% for NULG 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
NULG charges 0.26% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $26 vs $5 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NULG currently yields 0.10% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
NULG and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7929 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in NULG | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRM | 0.67% | 0.05% | 0.62% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NULG or VXUS?
NULG has an expense ratio of 0.26% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NULG or VXUS?
Over the past year NULG returned +20.68% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), NULG annualized +18.92% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NULG or VXUS?
NULG has been the more volatile fund at 18.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: NULG -36.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both NULG and VXUS?
NULG 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 NULG and VXUS?
NULG and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7929 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NULG or VXUS?
NULG yields 0.10% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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