QVAL vs VXUS
QVAL vs VXUS
Alpha Architect US Quantitative Value ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. QVAL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | QVAL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.28% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $582M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.50% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 52 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +23.42% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +43.45% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.55% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.57% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 22, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QVAL vs VXUS Performance
Alpha Architect US Quantitative Value ETF (QVAL) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QVAL returned +43.45% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, QVAL is up 23.42% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, QVAL compounded at +19.55% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +13.57% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, QVAL has the edge at +8.71% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QVAL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.2% 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 -53.3% for QVAL 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QVAL charges 0.28% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $28 vs $5 annually, a gap of $23 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QVAL currently yields 1.50% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
QVAL and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7911 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in QVAL | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ANGJ:ZA | 1.90% | 0.13% | 1.77% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QVAL or VXUS?
QVAL has an expense ratio of 0.28% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $23 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QVAL or VXUS?
Over the past year QVAL returned +43.45% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so QVAL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), QVAL annualized +8.71% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QVAL or VXUS?
QVAL has been the more volatile fund at 21.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: QVAL -53.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QVAL and VXUS?
QVAL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QVAL and VXUS?
QVAL and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7911 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QVAL or VXUS?
QVAL yields 1.50% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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