PCM vs VXUS
PCM vs VXUS
PCM Fund Inc. 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 | PCM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.63% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $71M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 13.82% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 318 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.06% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.08% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -7.00% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.99% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -73.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | PIMCO (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 2, 1993 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PCM vs VXUS Performance
PCM Fund Inc. (PCM) is a ETF from PIMCO (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PCM returned +1.08% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PCM is up 0.06% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PCM compounded at -7.00% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -3.99% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -0.66%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PCM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.2% 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 -73.2% for PCM 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PCM charges 1.63% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $163 vs $5 annually, a gap of $158 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PCM currently yields 13.82% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PCM and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7877 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, PCM or VXUS?
PCM has an expense ratio of 1.63% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $158 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PCM or VXUS?
Over the past year PCM returned +1.08% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), PCM annualized -0.66% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PCM or VXUS?
PCM has been the more volatile fund at 16.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PCM -73.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PCM and VXUS?
PCM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PCM and VXUS?
PCM and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7877 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PCM or VXUS?
PCM yields 13.82% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so PCM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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