QIS vs VXUS
Simplify Multi-QIS 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 | QIS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.21% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $37M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.02% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 245 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -34.37% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -51.91% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -25.85% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -63.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 10, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QIS vs VXUS Performance
Simplify Multi-QIS Alternative ETF (QIS) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QIS returned -51.91% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, QIS is down 34.37% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, QIS compounded at -25.85% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -25.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QIS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.8% 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 -63.5% for QIS 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 0.21. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QIS charges 1.21% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $121 vs $5 annually, a gap of $116 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QIS currently yields 2.02% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
QIS and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7863 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, QIS or VXUS?
QIS has an expense ratio of 1.21% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $116 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QIS or VXUS?
Over the past year QIS returned -51.91% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), QIS annualized -25.11% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QIS or VXUS?
QIS has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: QIS -63.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QIS and VXUS?
QIS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.21, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QIS and VXUS?
QIS and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7863 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QIS or VXUS?
QIS yields 2.02% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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