PMSE vs VXUS

Quick Verdict

VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.

Lower Fees: VXUSHigher Returns: VXUSMore Diversified: VXUS

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricPMSEVXUSWinner
Expense Ratio0.50%0.05%
AUM$4M$156.5B
Dividend Yield0.00%2.60%
Holdings68,747
YTD Return+3.92%+14.57%
1Y Return+6.23%+27.82%
3Y Return (annualized)-+19.27%
5Y Return (annualized)-+9.28%
Volatility (annualized)-15.1%
Max Drawdown-1.4%-39.9%
Fund FamilyPGIM InvestmentsVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionSep 1, 2025Jan 26, 2011

PMSE vs VXUS Performance

PGIM S&P 500 Max Buffer ETF - September (PMSE) is a ETF from PGIM Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PMSE returned +6.23% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PMSE is up 3.92% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -1.4% for PMSE and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.

Fees and Cost Over Time

PMSE 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, PMSE currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, PMSE or VXUS?

PMSE 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, PMSE or VXUS?

Over the past year PMSE returned +6.23% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which pays a higher dividend, PMSE or VXUS?

PMSE yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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