AFLG vs VXUS
AFLG vs VXUS
First Trust Active Factor Large Cap 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 7860 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AFLG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.55% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $702M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.70% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 219 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.26% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.44% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.63% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.86% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
AFLG vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Active Factor Large Cap ETF (AFLG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AFLG returned +23.44% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, AFLG is up 15.26% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, AFLG compounded at +21.63% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.86% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, AFLG has the edge at +14.00% annualized vs +4.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AFLG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -35.8% for AFLG 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AFLG charges 0.55% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $55 vs $5 annually, a gap of $50 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AFLG currently yields 0.70% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
AFLG and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 8072 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AFLG or VXUS?
AFLG has an expense ratio of 0.55% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $50 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AFLG or VXUS?
Over the past year AFLG returned +23.44% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), AFLG annualized +14.00% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AFLG or VXUS?
AFLG has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: AFLG -35.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both AFLG and VXUS?
AFLG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AFLG and VXUS?
AFLG and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8072 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AFLG or VXUS?
AFLG yields 0.70% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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