PSTP vs VXUS
Innovator Power Buffer Step Up Strategy 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PSTP | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.89% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $132M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +5.79% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.50% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.01% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 7, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PSTP vs VXUS Performance
Innovator Power Buffer Step Up Strategy ETF (PSTP) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PSTP returned +10.50% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, PSTP is up 5.79% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PSTP compounded at +11.01% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, PSTP has the edge at +9.04% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 8.3% for PSTP. 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 -12.5% for PSTP 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PSTP charges 0.89% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $89 vs $5 annually, a gap of $84 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PSTP currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PSTP or VXUS?
PSTP has an expense ratio of 0.89% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $84 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PSTP or VXUS?
Over the past year PSTP returned +10.50% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), PSTP annualized +9.04% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PSTP or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 8.3% for PSTP. Worst drawdown: PSTP -12.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PSTP and VXUS?
PSTP and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, PSTP or VXUS?
PSTP yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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