PFIX vs VXUS
Simplify Interest Rate Hedge 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PFIX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $178M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.77% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +3.53% | +15.52% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.90% | +26.73% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.92% | +20.35% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +22.68% | +9.40% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 36.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 10, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PFIX vs VXUS Performance
Simplify Interest Rate Hedge ETF (PFIX) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PFIX returned -3.90% while VXUS returned +26.73%. Year to date, PFIX is up 3.53% versus a gain of 15.52% for VXUS.
Over three years, PFIX compounded at +11.92% per year against +20.35% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +22.68% and +9.40% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, PFIX has the edge at +16.10% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PFIX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 36.3% 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 -36.2% for PFIX 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 -0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PFIX charges 0.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $5 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PFIX currently yields 7.77% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PFIX and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7870 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, PFIX or VXUS?
PFIX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PFIX or VXUS?
Over the past year PFIX returned -3.90% vs +26.73% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), PFIX annualized +16.10% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PFIX or VXUS?
PFIX has been the more volatile fund at 36.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PFIX -36.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PFIX and VXUS?
PFIX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PFIX and VXUS?
PFIX and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7870 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PFIX or VXUS?
PFIX yields 7.77% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so PFIX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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