TMFG vs VXUS
Motley Fool Global Opportunities 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 | TMFG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $349M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.27% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 46 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.52% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.85% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.40% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Motley Fool Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 17, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
TMFG vs VXUS Performance
Motley Fool Global Opportunities ETF (TMFG) is a ETF from Motley Fool Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year TMFG returned +5.85% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, TMFG is up 6.52% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, TMFG compounded at +12.40% per year against +19.53% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +4.38%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
TMFG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.3% 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 -33.7% for TMFG 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
TMFG charges 0.85% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $5 annually, a gap of $80 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, TMFG currently yields 0.27% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
TMFG and VXUS share 13 holdings out of 7889 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, TMFG or VXUS?
TMFG has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $80 per year of difference.
Which performed better, TMFG or VXUS?
Over the past year TMFG returned +5.85% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), TMFG annualized +4.38% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, TMFG or VXUS?
TMFG has been the more volatile fund at 17.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: TMFG -33.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both TMFG and VXUS?
TMFG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between TMFG and VXUS?
TMFG and VXUS share 13 common holdings with a 0.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7889 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, TMFG or VXUS?
TMFG yields 0.27% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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