SAMM vs VXUS
SAMM vs VXUS
Strategas Macro Momentum 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 | SAMM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $29M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.96% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 34 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.73% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.47% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Strategas Asset Management, LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 3, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SAMM vs VXUS Performance
Strategas Macro Momentum ETF (SAMM) is a ETF from Strategas Asset Management, LLC and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SAMM returned +16.47% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, SAMM is up 2.73% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 14.4% for SAMM. 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 -24.6% for SAMM 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SAMM charges 0.66% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $5 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SAMM currently yields 0.96% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SAMM and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 7893 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SAMM or VXUS?
SAMM has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SAMM or VXUS?
Over the past year SAMM returned +16.47% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), SAMM annualized +11.08% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SAMM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.4% for SAMM. Worst drawdown: SAMM -24.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SAMM and VXUS?
SAMM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SAMM and VXUS?
SAMM and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7893 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SAMM or VXUS?
SAMM yields 0.96% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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