SDD vs VXUS
ProShares UltraShort SmallCap600 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 | SDD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.30% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 3 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -29.44% | +14.72% | |
| 1Y Return | -34.95% | +26.79% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -24.10% | +19.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -16.49% | +9.16% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 38.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 23, 2007 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SDD vs VXUS Performance
ProShares UltraShort SmallCap600 (SDD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SDD returned -34.95% while VXUS returned +26.79%. Year to date, SDD is down 29.44% versus a gain of 14.72% for VXUS.
Over three years, SDD compounded at -24.10% per year against +19.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -16.49% and +9.16% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.85% annualized vs -29.46%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SDD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 38.8% 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 -100.0% for SDD 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 -0.73. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SDD 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, SDD currently yields 6.30% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SDD or VXUS?
SDD 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, SDD or VXUS?
Over the past year SDD returned -34.95% vs +26.79% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), SDD annualized -29.46% vs +4.85% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SDD or VXUS?
SDD has been the more volatile fund at 38.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: SDD -100.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SDD and VXUS?
SDD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.73, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SDD or VXUS?
SDD yields 6.30% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so SDD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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