SDP vs VXUS
SDP vs VXUS
ProShares UltraShort Utilities 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 | SDP | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $4M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.27% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -3.70% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.28% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -20.46% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -15.33% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SDP vs VXUS Performance
ProShares UltraShort Utilities (SDP) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SDP returned -3.28% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, SDP is down 3.70% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, SDP compounded at -20.46% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -15.33% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -24.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SDP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.4% 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 -99.8% for SDP 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 -0.32. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SDP 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, SDP currently yields 4.27% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SDP or VXUS?
SDP 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, SDP or VXUS?
Over the past year SDP returned -3.28% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), SDP annualized -24.75% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SDP or VXUS?
SDP has been the more volatile fund at 30.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: SDP -99.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SDP and VXUS?
SDP and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.32, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SDP or VXUS?
SDP yields 4.27% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SDP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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