SQLT vs VXUS
iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Quality Factor ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SQLT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $7M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.19% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 484 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +12.59% | +14.56% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +25.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.38% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.32% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2026 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SQLT vs VXUS Performance
iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Quality Factor ETF (SQLT) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, SQLT is up 12.59% versus a gain of 14.56% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -4.0% for SQLT and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SQLT charges 0.20% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $5 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SQLT currently yields 0.19% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SQLT and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 8352 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SQLT or VXUS?
SQLT has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
What is the holdings overlap between SQLT and VXUS?
SQLT and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8352 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SQLT or VXUS?
SQLT yields 0.19% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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