CIF vs VXUS
CIF vs VXUS
MFS Intermediate High Income Fund 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CIF | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.05% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $31M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.78% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 360 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -1.12% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.67% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.23% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.54% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -87.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 21, 1988 | Jan 26, 2011 |
CIF vs VXUS Performance
MFS Intermediate High Income Fund (CIF) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CIF returned +3.67% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, CIF is down 1.12% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, CIF compounded at +10.23% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -3.54% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -3.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CIF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.3% 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 -87.0% for CIF 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CIF charges 2.05% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $205 vs $5 annually, a gap of $200 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CIF currently yields 9.78% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
CIF and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8145 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 CIF | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIN:AU | 0.63% | 0.02% | 0.61% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CIF or VXUS?
CIF has an expense ratio of 2.05% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $200 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CIF or VXUS?
Over the past year CIF returned +3.67% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), CIF annualized -3.07% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CIF or VXUS?
CIF has been the more volatile fund at 19.3% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: CIF -87.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both CIF and VXUS?
CIF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CIF and VXUS?
CIF and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8145 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CIF or VXUS?
CIF yields 9.78% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so CIF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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