QAT vs VXUS
iShares MSCI Qatar 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 | QAT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $65M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.72% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -2.27% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -6.65% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.09% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.93% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 29, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QAT vs VXUS Performance
iShares MSCI Qatar ETF (QAT) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QAT returned -6.65% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, QAT is down 2.27% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, QAT compounded at +3.09% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.93% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -0.76%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QAT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.6% 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 -51.0% for QAT 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 0.40. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QAT 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, QAT currently yields 4.72% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
QAT and VXUS share 16 holdings out of 7879 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QAT or VXUS?
QAT 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, QAT or VXUS?
Over the past year QAT returned -6.65% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), QAT annualized -0.76% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QAT or VXUS?
QAT has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: QAT -51.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QAT and VXUS?
QAT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.40, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QAT and VXUS?
QAT and VXUS share 16 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7879 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QAT or VXUS?
QAT yields 4.72% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so QAT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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