SAEF vs VXUS
SAEF vs VXUS
Schwab Ariel Opportunities 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 | SAEF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $19M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.33% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -12.00% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -8.20% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.62% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 15, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SAEF vs VXUS Performance
Schwab Ariel Opportunities ETF (SAEF) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SAEF returned -8.20% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, SAEF is down 12.00% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, SAEF compounded at +2.62% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -0.25%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SAEF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.6% 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 -28.1% for SAEF 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAEF charges 0.59% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $5 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAEF currently yields 0.33% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SAEF and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7919 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAEF or VXUS?
SAEF has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAEF or VXUS?
Over the past year SAEF returned -8.20% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SAEF annualized -0.25% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAEF or VXUS?
SAEF has been the more volatile fund at 24.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: SAEF -28.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SAEF and VXUS?
SAEF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SAEF and VXUS?
SAEF and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7919 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAEF or VXUS?
SAEF yields 0.33% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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