REFA vs VXUS
Columbia Research Enhanced International Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | REFA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.32% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $6M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.03% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 215 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.15% | +15.37% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +26.20% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.32% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.61% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -11.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Columbia Threadneedle Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
REFA vs VXUS Performance
Columbia Research Enhanced International Equity ETF (REFA) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, REFA is up 15.15% versus a gain of 15.37% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -11.2% for REFA and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
REFA charges 0.32% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $32 vs $5 annually, a gap of $27 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, REFA currently yields 0.03% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
REFA and VXUS share 141 holdings out of 7938 unique holdings combined, representing a 13.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, REFA or VXUS?
REFA has an expense ratio of 0.32% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $27 per year of difference.
What is the holdings overlap between REFA and VXUS?
REFA and VXUS share 141 common holdings with a 13.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7938 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, REFA or VXUS?
REFA yields 0.03% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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