VXUS vs ZSC
Vanguard Total International Stock ETF vs USCF Sustainable Commodity Strategy Fund
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. ZSC delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VXUS | ZSC | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.05% | 0.59% | |
| AUM | $156.5B | $3M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.60% | 1.69% | |
| Holdings | 8,747 | 31 | |
| YTD Return | +14.19% | +7.79% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.38% | +28.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.53% | +2.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.03% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 13.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.9% | -26.5% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | USCF Investments | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2011 | Aug 9, 2023 |
VXUS vs ZSC Performance
Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and USCF Sustainable Commodity Strategy Fund (ZSC) is a ETF from USCF Investments. Over the past year VXUS returned +27.38% while ZSC returned +28.43%. Year to date, VXUS is up 14.19% versus a gain of 7.79% for ZSC.
Over three years, VXUS compounded at +19.53% per year against +2.29% for ZSC. Across the full 3-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +1.79%. 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 13.6% for ZSC. 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 -39.9% for VXUS and -26.5% for ZSC. 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VXUS charges 0.05% per year while ZSC charges 0.59%. On a $10,000 position that is $5 vs $59 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VXUS currently yields 2.60% against 1.69% for ZSC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VXUS or ZSC?
VXUS has an expense ratio of 0.05% while ZSC charges 0.59%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VXUS or ZSC?
Over the past year VXUS returned +27.38% vs +28.43% for ZSC, so ZSC leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), VXUS annualized +4.83% vs +1.79% for ZSC. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VXUS or ZSC?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.6% for ZSC. Worst drawdown: VXUS -39.9% vs ZSC -26.5%.
Should I hold both VXUS and ZSC?
VXUS and ZSC have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, VXUS or ZSC?
VXUS yields 2.60% while ZSC yields 1.69%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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