RFEM vs VXUS
First Trust RiverFront Dynamic Emerging Markets ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. RFEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | RFEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $83M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.67% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 115 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +23.86% | +14.98% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.27% | +25.63% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +24.97% | +19.65% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.23% | +9.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 14, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
RFEM vs VXUS Performance
First Trust RiverFront Dynamic Emerging Markets ETF (RFEM) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RFEM returned +37.27% while VXUS returned +25.63%. Year to date, RFEM is up 23.86% versus a gain of 14.98% for VXUS.
Over three years, RFEM compounded at +24.97% per year against +19.65% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.23% and +9.30% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, RFEM has the edge at +9.02% annualized vs +4.87%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RFEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.2% 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 -45.6% for RFEM 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 0.90. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFEM charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RFEM currently yields 2.67% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
RFEM and VXUS share 64 holdings out of 7916 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RFEM or VXUS?
RFEM has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RFEM or VXUS?
Over the past year RFEM returned +37.27% vs +25.63% for VXUS, so RFEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), RFEM annualized +9.02% vs +4.87% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFEM or VXUS?
RFEM has been the more volatile fund at 17.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: RFEM -45.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both RFEM and VXUS?
RFEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.90, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between RFEM and VXUS?
RFEM and VXUS share 64 common holdings with a 3.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7916 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFEM or VXUS?
RFEM yields 2.67% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so RFEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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