SVOL vs VXUS
Simplify Volatility Premium ETF 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 | SVOL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $523M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 22.03% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 32 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +3.04% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.80% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.46% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.90% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 12, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SVOL vs VXUS Performance
Simplify Volatility Premium ETF (SVOL) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SVOL returned +16.80% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, SVOL is up 3.04% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, SVOL compounded at +6.46% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.90% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, SVOL has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 13.4% for SVOL. 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 -33.5% for SVOL 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 0.61. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SVOL charges 0.66% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $5 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SVOL currently yields 22.03% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SVOL and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7870 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SVOL or VXUS?
SVOL has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SVOL or VXUS?
Over the past year SVOL returned +16.80% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SVOL annualized +8.09% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SVOL or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.4% for SVOL. Worst drawdown: SVOL -33.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SVOL and VXUS?
SVOL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.61, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SVOL and VXUS?
SVOL and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7870 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SVOL or VXUS?
SVOL yields 22.03% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SVOL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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