VXUS vs ZVOL
Vanguard Total International Stock ETF vs Volatility Premium Plus 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 | VXUS | ZVOL | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.05% | 1.45% | |
| AUM | $156.5B | $15M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.60% | 69.84% | |
| Holdings | 8,747 | 5 | |
| YTD Return | +14.19% | -16.12% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.38% | -7.41% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.53% | -1.84% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.03% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 55.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.9% | -64.5% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Volatility Shares, LLC | |
| Category | Equity | Alternative | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2011 | Nov 22, 2024 |
VXUS vs ZVOL Performance
Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Volatility Premium Plus ETF (ZVOL) is a ETF from Volatility Shares, LLC. Over the past year VXUS returned +27.38% while ZVOL returned -7.41%. Year to date, VXUS is up 14.19% versus a loss of 16.12% for ZVOL.
Over three years, VXUS compounded at +19.53% per year against -1.84% for ZVOL. Across the full 3-year window we track, ZVOL has the edge at +6.80% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ZVOL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 55.3% 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 -39.9% for VXUS and -64.5% for ZVOL. 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 -0.03. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VXUS charges 0.05% per year while ZVOL charges 1.45%. On a $10,000 position that is $5 vs $145 annually, a gap of $140 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VXUS currently yields 2.60% against 69.84% for ZVOL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VXUS or ZVOL?
VXUS has an expense ratio of 0.05% while ZVOL charges 1.45%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $140 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VXUS or ZVOL?
Over the past year VXUS returned +27.38% vs -7.41% for ZVOL, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), VXUS annualized +4.83% vs +6.80% for ZVOL. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VXUS or ZVOL?
ZVOL has been the more volatile fund at 55.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: VXUS -39.9% vs ZVOL -64.5%.
Should I hold both VXUS and ZVOL?
VXUS and ZVOL have a monthly-return correlation of -0.03, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, VXUS or ZVOL?
VXUS yields 2.60% while ZVOL yields 69.84%, so ZVOL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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