PPLT vs VXUS
PPLT vs VXUS
abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. PPLT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PPLT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.9B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -18.51% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.04% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.83% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.65% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -70.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 8, 2010 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PPLT vs VXUS Performance
abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF (PPLT) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PPLT returned +30.04% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PPLT is down 18.51% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PPLT compounded at +23.83% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.65% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -0.02%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PPLT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.5% 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 -70.7% for PPLT 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 0.51. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PPLT 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, PPLT currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PPLT or VXUS?
PPLT 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, PPLT or VXUS?
Over the past year PPLT returned +30.04% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so PPLT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), PPLT annualized -0.02% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PPLT or VXUS?
PPLT has been the more volatile fund at 23.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PPLT -70.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PPLT and VXUS?
PPLT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.51, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PPLT or VXUS?
PPLT yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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