PSC vs VXUS
Principal U.S. Small-Cap Multi-Factor ETF 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PSC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.5B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.53% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 513 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +20.93% | +15.52% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.24% | +26.73% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.32% | +20.35% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.49% | +9.40% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -47.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Principal Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 21, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PSC vs VXUS Performance
Principal U.S. Small-Cap Multi-Factor ETF (PSC) is a ETF from Principal Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PSC returned +26.24% while VXUS returned +26.73%. Year to date, PSC is up 20.93% versus a gain of 15.52% for VXUS.
Over three years, PSC compounded at +19.32% per year against +20.35% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +9.49% and +9.40% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, PSC has the edge at +11.44% annualized vs +4.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PSC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.9% 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 -47.9% for PSC 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PSC charges 0.38% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $5 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PSC currently yields 0.53% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PSC and VXUS share 4 holdings out of 8357 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PSC or VXUS?
PSC has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PSC or VXUS?
Over the past year PSC returned +26.24% vs +26.73% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), PSC annualized +11.44% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PSC or VXUS?
PSC has been the more volatile fund at 20.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PSC -47.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PSC and VXUS?
PSC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PSC and VXUS?
PSC and VXUS share 4 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8357 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PSC or VXUS?
PSC yields 0.53% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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