VFMV vs VXUS
VFMV vs VXUS
Vanguard US Minimum Volatility 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 | VFMV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.13% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $418M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.49% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 182 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +12.46% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.31% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.77% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.47% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 13, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
VFMV vs VXUS Performance
Vanguard US Minimum Volatility ETF (VFMV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VFMV returned +15.31% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, VFMV is up 12.46% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, VFMV compounded at +14.77% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +9.47% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VFMV has the edge at +10.00% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 13.2% for VFMV. 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 -33.6% for VFMV 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VFMV charges 0.13% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $13 vs $5 annually, a gap of $8 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VFMV currently yields 1.49% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
VFMV and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8039 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in VFMV | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| EGP | 0.03% | 0.00% | 0.03% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VFMV or VXUS?
VFMV has an expense ratio of 0.13% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $8 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VFMV or VXUS?
Over the past year VFMV returned +15.31% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), VFMV annualized +10.00% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VFMV or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.2% for VFMV. Worst drawdown: VFMV -33.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both VFMV and VXUS?
VFMV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VFMV and VXUS?
VFMV and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8039 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VFMV or VXUS?
VFMV yields 1.49% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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