TRFM vs VXUS
TRFM vs VXUS
AAM Transformers ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. TRFM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | TRFM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $244M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.13% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 246 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +26.12% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +39.25% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +28.99% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Advisors Asset Management, Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 11, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
TRFM vs VXUS Performance
AAM Transformers ETF (TRFM) is a ETF from Advisors Asset Management, Inc. and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year TRFM returned +39.25% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, TRFM is up 26.12% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, TRFM compounded at +28.99% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, TRFM has the edge at +26.41% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
TRFM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.2% 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 -28.4% for TRFM 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
TRFM charges 0.49% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $5 annually, a gap of $44 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, TRFM currently yields 0.13% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
TRFM and VXUS share 23 holdings out of 8083 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in TRFM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASML:AS | 0.52% | 1.29% | 0.77% |
| ENR1N:MU | 0.50% | 0.32% | 0.18% |
| IBE:MA | 0.43% | 0.36% | 0.07% |
| 8035:JP | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SAF:PA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SHOP:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ASX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ORCL | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| PDD | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ADYEN:AS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings TRFM shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, TRFM or VXUS?
TRFM has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $44 per year of difference.
Which performed better, TRFM or VXUS?
Over the past year TRFM returned +39.25% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so TRFM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), TRFM annualized +26.41% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, TRFM or VXUS?
TRFM has been the more volatile fund at 24.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: TRFM -28.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both TRFM and VXUS?
TRFM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between TRFM and VXUS?
TRFM and VXUS share 23 common holdings with a 2.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8083 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, TRFM or VXUS?
TRFM yields 0.13% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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