VCLN vs VXUS
Virtus Duff & Phelps Clean Energy ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VCLN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VCLN | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.44% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +8.43% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +39.36% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.94% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.99% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 3, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
VCLN vs VXUS Performance
Virtus Duff & Phelps Clean Energy ETF (VCLN) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VCLN returned +39.36% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, VCLN is up 8.43% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, VCLN compounded at +14.94% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.99% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +3.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VCLN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.4% 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 -45.7% for VCLN 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VCLN charges 0.59% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $5 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VCLN currently yields 1.44% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
VCLN and VXUS share 13 holdings out of 7888 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VCLN or VXUS?
VCLN has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VCLN or VXUS?
Over the past year VCLN returned +39.36% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VCLN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), VCLN annualized +3.09% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VCLN or VXUS?
VCLN has been the more volatile fund at 27.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: VCLN -45.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both VCLN and VXUS?
VCLN and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VCLN and VXUS?
VCLN and VXUS share 13 common holdings with a 1.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7888 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VCLN or VXUS?
VCLN yields 1.44% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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