QYLD vs VXUS
Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call 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 | QYLD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $8.1B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.38% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 104 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +10.13% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.14% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.94% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.17% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2013 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QYLD vs VXUS Performance
Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call ETF (QYLD) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QYLD returned +21.14% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, QYLD is up 10.13% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, QYLD compounded at +13.94% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.17% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +2.82%. 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 11.0% for QYLD. 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 -30.7% for QYLD 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QYLD 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, QYLD currently yields 11.38% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
QYLD and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 7938 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QYLD or VXUS?
QYLD 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, QYLD or VXUS?
Over the past year QYLD returned +21.14% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), QYLD annualized +2.82% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QYLD or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 11.0% for QYLD. Worst drawdown: QYLD -30.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QYLD and VXUS?
QYLD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QYLD and VXUS?
QYLD and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 2.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7938 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QYLD or VXUS?
QYLD yields 11.38% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so QYLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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