PGX vs VXUS
Invesco Preferred 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 | PGX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $3.8B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.38% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 270 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -2.33% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.78% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.60% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.18% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Invesco (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 31, 2008 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PGX vs VXUS Performance
Invesco Preferred ETF (PGX) is a ETF from Invesco (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PGX returned -0.78% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, PGX is down 2.33% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, PGX compounded at +4.60% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -1.18% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs -1.74%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 14.4% for PGX. 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 -69.5% for PGX 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PGX 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, PGX currently yields 6.38% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PGX and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 8094 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PGX or VXUS?
PGX 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, PGX or VXUS?
Over the past year PGX returned -0.78% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), PGX annualized -1.74% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PGX or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.4% for PGX. Worst drawdown: PGX -69.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PGX and VXUS?
PGX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PGX and VXUS?
PGX and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8094 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PGX or VXUS?
PGX yields 6.38% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so PGX 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.