RNRG vs VXUS
Global X Renewable Energy Producers 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 | RNRG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $26M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.65% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.61% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.87% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +1.61% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -5.48% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 27, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
RNRG vs VXUS Performance
Global X Renewable Energy Producers ETF (RNRG) 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 RNRG returned +16.87% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, RNRG is up 1.61% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, RNRG compounded at +1.61% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -5.48% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs -2.02%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RNRG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.7% 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 -58.8% for RNRG 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RNRG charges 0.65% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $5 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RNRG currently yields 1.65% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
RNRG and VXUS share 16 holdings out of 7878 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RNRG or VXUS?
RNRG has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RNRG or VXUS?
Over the past year RNRG returned +16.87% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), RNRG annualized -2.02% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RNRG or VXUS?
RNRG has been the more volatile fund at 19.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: RNRG -58.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both RNRG and VXUS?
RNRG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RNRG and VXUS?
RNRG and VXUS share 16 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7878 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RNRG or VXUS?
RNRG yields 1.65% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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