USAI vs VXUS
Pacer American Energy Infrastructure 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 | USAI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $130M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.23% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +20.74% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.24% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.39% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +20.40% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 28.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Pacer ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 12, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
USAI vs VXUS Performance
Pacer American Energy Infrastructure ETF (USAI) is a ETF from Pacer ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USAI returned +20.24% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, USAI is up 20.74% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, USAI compounded at +23.39% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +20.40% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, USAI has the edge at +10.70% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
USAI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 28.6% 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 -69.3% for USAI 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USAI charges 0.75% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $5 annually, a gap of $70 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USAI currently yields 4.23% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
USAI and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 7890 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USAI or VXUS?
USAI has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $70 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USAI or VXUS?
Over the past year USAI returned +20.24% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), USAI annualized +10.70% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USAI or VXUS?
USAI has been the more volatile fund at 28.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: USAI -69.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both USAI and VXUS?
USAI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USAI and VXUS?
USAI and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7890 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USAI or VXUS?
USAI yields 4.23% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so USAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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