SEMI vs VXUS
SEMI vs VXUS
Columbia Select Technology ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. SEMI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SEMI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $40M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.39% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +25.77% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +39.20% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.21% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 29.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Columbia Threadneedle Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 29, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SEMI vs VXUS Performance
Columbia Select Technology ETF (SEMI) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SEMI returned +39.20% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, SEMI is up 25.77% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, SEMI compounded at +26.21% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, SEMI has the edge at +18.36% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SEMI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 29.1% 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 -32.9% for SEMI 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SEMI charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SEMI currently yields 3.39% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SEMI and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 7893 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SEMI or VXUS?
SEMI has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SEMI or VXUS?
Over the past year SEMI returned +39.20% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so SEMI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), SEMI annualized +18.36% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SEMI or VXUS?
SEMI has been the more volatile fund at 29.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: SEMI -32.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SEMI and VXUS?
SEMI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SEMI and VXUS?
SEMI and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7893 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SEMI or VXUS?
SEMI yields 3.39% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SEMI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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