ROBT vs VXUS
First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ROBT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $788M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.02% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 244 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.89% | +14.72% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.71% | +26.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.97% | +19.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.77% | +9.16% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 21, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ROBT vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (ROBT) 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 ROBT returned +20.71% while VXUS returned +26.79%. Year to date, ROBT is up 14.89% versus a gain of 14.72% for VXUS.
Over three years, ROBT compounded at +11.97% per year against +19.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +1.77% and +9.16% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, ROBT has the edge at +8.70% annualized vs +4.85%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ROBT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.6% 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 -44.5% for ROBT 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ROBT 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, ROBT currently yields 0.02% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ROBT and VXUS share 26 holdings out of 8182 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ROBT or VXUS?
ROBT 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, ROBT or VXUS?
Over the past year ROBT returned +20.71% vs +26.79% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), ROBT annualized +8.70% vs +4.85% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ROBT or VXUS?
ROBT has been the more volatile fund at 23.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: ROBT -44.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ROBT and VXUS?
ROBT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ROBT and VXUS?
ROBT and VXUS share 26 common holdings with a 1.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8182 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ROBT or VXUS?
ROBT yields 0.02% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.