VEM vs VXUS
Virtus Emerging Markets Dividend ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $7M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.00% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 54 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +12.08% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 3, 2026 | Jan 26, 2011 |
VEM vs VXUS Performance
Virtus Emerging Markets Dividend ETF (VEM) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, VEM is up 12.08% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -13.6% for VEM and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VEM 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, VEM currently yields 2.00% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
VEM and VXUS share 44 holdings out of 7879 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VEM or VXUS?
VEM 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.
What is the holdings overlap between VEM and VXUS?
VEM and VXUS share 44 common holdings with a 6.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7879 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VEM or VXUS?
VEM yields 2.00% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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