APLU vs VXUS
APLU vs VXUS
Allspring Core Plus 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 | APLU | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.31% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $421M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.42% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 549 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.68% | +11.13% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.60% | +27.13% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +17.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Allspring Global Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
APLU vs VXUS Performance
Allspring Core Plus ETF (APLU) is a ETF from Allspring Global Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year APLU returned +2.60% while VXUS returned +27.13%. Year to date, APLU is down 0.68% versus a gain of 11.13% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 3.4% for APLU. 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 -3.2% for APLU 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
APLU charges 0.31% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $31 vs $5 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, APLU currently yields 5.42% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
APLU and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8106 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 APLU | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARGENT 4.125 07/09/3 | 0.03% | 0.00% | 0.03% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, APLU or VXUS?
APLU has an expense ratio of 0.31% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, APLU or VXUS?
Over the past year APLU returned +2.60% vs +27.13% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), APLU annualized +2.68% vs +4.66% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, APLU or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 3.4% for APLU. Worst drawdown: APLU -3.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both APLU and VXUS?
APLU and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between APLU and VXUS?
APLU and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8106 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, APLU or VXUS?
APLU yields 5.42% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so APLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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