PWRD vs VXUS
TCW Transform Systems 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 | PWRD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.05% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 31 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.83% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.04% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +28.96% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | TCW ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 2, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PWRD vs VXUS Performance
TCW Transform Systems ETF (PWRD) is a ETF from TCW ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PWRD returned +20.04% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, PWRD is up 13.83% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, PWRD compounded at +28.96% per year against +19.53% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, PWRD has the edge at +20.82% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PWRD 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 -25.9% for PWRD 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PWRD charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PWRD currently yields 0.05% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PWRD and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 7892 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PWRD or VXUS?
PWRD has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PWRD or VXUS?
Over the past year PWRD returned +20.04% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), PWRD annualized +20.82% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PWRD or VXUS?
PWRD has been the more volatile fund at 23.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PWRD -25.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PWRD and VXUS?
PWRD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PWRD and VXUS?
PWRD and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7892 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PWRD or VXUS?
PWRD yields 0.05% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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