PALC vs VXUS
PALC vs VXUS
Pacer Lunt Large Cap Multi-Factor Alternator 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 | PALC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $211M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.02% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 181 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +10.02% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.18% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.24% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.80% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Pacer ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 24, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PALC vs VXUS Performance
Pacer Lunt Large Cap Multi-Factor Alternator ETF (PALC) is a ETF from Pacer ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PALC returned +16.18% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PALC is up 10.02% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PALC compounded at +15.24% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.80% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, PALC has the edge at +15.94% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PALC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.3% 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 -24.4% for PALC 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PALC charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PALC currently yields 1.02% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PALC and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8038 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in PALC | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORCL | 0.44% | 0.00% | 0.44% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PALC or VXUS?
PALC has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PALC or VXUS?
Over the past year PALC returned +16.18% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), PALC annualized +15.94% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PALC or VXUS?
PALC has been the more volatile fund at 17.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PALC -24.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PALC and VXUS?
PALC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PALC and VXUS?
PALC and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8038 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PALC or VXUS?
PALC yields 1.02% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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