RFDA vs VXUS
RFDA vs VXUS
ALPS Dynamic US Dividend Advantage 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 | RFDA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.52% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $89M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.79% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 79 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.12% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +25.69% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.05% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.07% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 6, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
RFDA vs VXUS Performance
ALPS Dynamic US Dividend Advantage ETF (RFDA) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RFDA returned +25.69% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, RFDA is up 16.12% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, RFDA compounded at +19.05% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +13.07% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, RFDA has the edge at +12.48% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RFDA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.2% 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 -34.8% for RFDA 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFDA charges 0.52% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $52 vs $5 annually, a gap of $47 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RFDA currently yields 1.79% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
RFDA and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 7937 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RFDA or VXUS?
RFDA has an expense ratio of 0.52% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $47 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RFDA or VXUS?
Over the past year RFDA returned +25.69% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), RFDA annualized +12.48% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFDA or VXUS?
RFDA has been the more volatile fund at 15.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: RFDA -34.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both RFDA and VXUS?
RFDA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RFDA and VXUS?
RFDA and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7937 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFDA or VXUS?
RFDA yields 1.79% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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