SMDD vs VXUS
SMDD vs VXUS
UltraPro Short MidCap400 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 | SMDD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.11% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -37.96% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | -50.10% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -36.64% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -31.18% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 52.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 9, 2010 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SMDD vs VXUS Performance
UltraPro Short MidCap400 (SMDD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SMDD returned -50.10% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, SMDD is down 37.96% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, SMDD compounded at -36.64% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -31.18% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -40.37%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SMDD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 52.4% 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 -100.0% for SMDD 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 -0.70. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SMDD 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, SMDD currently yields 6.11% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SMDD or VXUS?
SMDD 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, SMDD or VXUS?
Over the past year SMDD returned -50.10% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), SMDD annualized -40.37% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SMDD or VXUS?
SMDD has been the more volatile fund at 52.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: SMDD -100.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SMDD and VXUS?
SMDD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SMDD or VXUS?
SMDD yields 6.11% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SMDD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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