PMFB vs VXUS
PGIM S&P 500 Max Buffer ETF - February 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 | PMFB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $6M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +3.55% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.06% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -2.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | PGIM Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 31, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PMFB vs VXUS Performance
PGIM S&P 500 Max Buffer ETF - February (PMFB) is a ETF from PGIM Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PMFB returned +7.06% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PMFB is up 3.55% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 2.5% for PMFB. 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 -2.9% for PMFB 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PMFB 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, PMFB currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PMFB or VXUS?
PMFB 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, PMFB or VXUS?
Over the past year PMFB returned +7.06% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), PMFB annualized +6.63% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PMFB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 2.5% for PMFB. Worst drawdown: PMFB -2.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PMFB and VXUS?
PMFB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PMFB or VXUS?
PMFB yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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