QLVE vs VXUS
QLVE vs VXUS
FlexShares Emerging Markets Quality Low Volatility Index Fund 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 | QLVE | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $17M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.64% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 184 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.95% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.15% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.61% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.65% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Flexshares Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 15, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QLVE vs VXUS Performance
FlexShares Emerging Markets Quality Low Volatility Index Fund (QLVE) is a ETF from Flexshares Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QLVE returned +22.15% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, QLVE is up 11.95% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, QLVE compounded at +16.61% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.65% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, QLVE has the edge at +6.35% 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 13.2% for QLVE. 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 -30.0% for QLVE 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QLVE charges 0.18% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $5 annually, a gap of $13 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QLVE currently yields 2.64% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
QLVE and VXUS share 89 holdings out of 7911 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in QLVE | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2330:TW | 15.20% | 3.41% | 11.79% |
| 000660:KR | 3.66% | 0.90% | 2.76% |
| 0700:KY | 2.43% | 0.92% | 1.51% |
| 2303:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2454:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 500209:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 3988:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 1398:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 3034:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BHARTIARTL:MB | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings QLVE shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QLVE or VXUS?
QLVE has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $13 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QLVE or VXUS?
Over the past year QLVE returned +22.15% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), QLVE annualized +6.35% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QLVE or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.2% for QLVE. Worst drawdown: QLVE -30.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QLVE and VXUS?
QLVE and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QLVE and VXUS?
QLVE and VXUS share 89 common holdings with a 8.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7911 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QLVE or VXUS?
QLVE yields 2.64% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so QLVE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.