PLTM vs VXUS
GraniteShares Platinum Trust vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. PLTM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PLTM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $170M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -18.60% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.02% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.90% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.64% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 40.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | GraniteShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 22, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PLTM vs VXUS Performance
GraniteShares Platinum Trust (PLTM) is a ETF from GraniteShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PLTM returned +30.02% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PLTM is down 18.60% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PLTM compounded at +23.90% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.64% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -18.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PLTM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 40.4% 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 -94.2% for PLTM 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 0.34. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PLTM 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, PLTM currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PLTM or VXUS?
PLTM 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, PLTM or VXUS?
Over the past year PLTM returned +30.02% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so PLTM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), PLTM annualized -18.90% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PLTM or VXUS?
PLTM has been the more volatile fund at 40.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PLTM -94.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PLTM and VXUS?
PLTM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.34, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PLTM or VXUS?
PLTM yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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