VSGX vs VXUS
Vanguard ESG International Stock 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VSGX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.10% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $6.5B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.99% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 6,636 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.09% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.65% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.70% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.15% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 18, 2018 | Jan 26, 2011 |
VSGX vs VXUS Performance
Vanguard ESG International Stock ETF (VSGX) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VSGX returned +24.65% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, VSGX is up 15.09% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, VSGX compounded at +19.70% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.15% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VSGX has the edge at +8.82% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VSGX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.3% 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 -33.1% for VSGX 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 0.99. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VSGX charges 0.10% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $10 vs $5 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VSGX currently yields 2.99% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
VSGX and VXUS share 5587 holdings out of 8410 unique holdings combined, representing a 57.6% weight overlap.
High overlap means holding both may not provide much additional diversification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VSGX or VXUS?
VSGX has an expense ratio of 0.10% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VSGX or VXUS?
Over the past year VSGX returned +24.65% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), VSGX annualized +8.82% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VSGX or VXUS?
VSGX has been the more volatile fund at 16.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: VSGX -33.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both VSGX and VXUS?
VSGX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.99, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between VSGX and VXUS?
VSGX and VXUS share 5587 common holdings with a 57.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8410 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VSGX or VXUS?
VSGX yields 2.99% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VSGX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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