QALT vs VXUS
SEI DBi Multi-Strategy Alternative 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 | QALT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.80% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $192M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.44% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.04% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.76% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | SEI EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 25, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QALT vs VXUS Performance
SEI DBi Multi-Strategy Alternative ETF (QALT) is a ETF from SEI EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QALT returned +12.76% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, QALT is up 7.04% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 7.3% for QALT. 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 -4.8% for QALT 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QALT charges 0.80% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $80 vs $5 annually, a gap of $75 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QALT currently yields 5.44% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QALT or VXUS?
QALT has an expense ratio of 0.80% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $75 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QALT or VXUS?
Over the past year QALT returned +12.76% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QALT or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 7.3% for QALT. Worst drawdown: QALT -4.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QALT and VXUS?
QALT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, QALT or VXUS?
QALT yields 5.44% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so QALT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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