CFA vs VXUS
CFA vs VXUS
VictoryShares US 500 Volatility Weighted 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 | CFA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $537M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.23% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 502 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +12.23% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.48% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.67% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.43% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Victory Capital Management Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 1, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CFA vs VXUS Performance
VictoryShares US 500 Volatility Weighted ETF (CFA) is a ETF from Victory Capital Management Inc. and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CFA returned +16.48% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, CFA is up 12.23% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, CFA compounded at +13.67% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.43% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, CFA has the edge at +9.93% annualized vs +4.80%. 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 14.9% for CFA. 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 -37.9% for CFA 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CFA charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CFA currently yields 1.23% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CFA and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 8353 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in CFA | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SRE | 0.27% | 0.00% | 0.27% |
| HBAN | 0.21% | 0.05% | 0.16% |
| BG | 0.17% | 0.03% | 0.14% |
| KR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2345:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ORCL | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 6 holdings CFA shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CFA or VXUS?
CFA has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CFA or VXUS?
Over the past year CFA returned +16.48% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), CFA annualized +9.93% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CFA or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.9% for CFA. Worst drawdown: CFA -37.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CFA and VXUS?
CFA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CFA and VXUS?
CFA and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8353 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CFA or VXUS?
CFA yields 1.23% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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