PPEM vs VXUS
Putnam PanAgora ESG Emerging Markets Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. PPEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PPEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 49.41% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 116 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +28.48% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +55.32% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.92% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Putnam Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 19, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PPEM vs VXUS Performance
Putnam PanAgora ESG Emerging Markets Equity ETF (PPEM) is a ETF from Putnam Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PPEM returned +55.32% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PPEM is up 28.48% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PPEM compounded at +24.92% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, PPEM has the edge at +21.29% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PPEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.7% 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 -18.4% for PPEM 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PPEM charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PPEM currently yields 49.41% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PPEM and VXUS share 72 holdings out of 7898 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PPEM or VXUS?
PPEM has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PPEM or VXUS?
Over the past year PPEM returned +55.32% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so PPEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), PPEM annualized +21.29% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PPEM or VXUS?
PPEM has been the more volatile fund at 16.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PPEM -18.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PPEM and VXUS?
PPEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PPEM and VXUS?
PPEM and VXUS share 72 common holdings with a 7.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7898 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PPEM or VXUS?
PPEM yields 49.41% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so PPEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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