FARX vs VXUS
FARX vs VXUS
Frontier Asset Absolute Return 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 | FARX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $13M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.90% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 13 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +8.59% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.82% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Frontier Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 19, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FARX vs VXUS Performance
Frontier Asset Absolute Return ETF (FARX) is a ETF from Frontier Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FARX returned +17.82% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, FARX is up 8.59% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 5.0% for FARX. 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 -5.8% for FARX 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FARX charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FARX currently yields 2.90% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FARX and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7871 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 FARX | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIG | 2.04% | 0.01% | 2.03% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FARX or VXUS?
FARX has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FARX or VXUS?
Over the past year FARX returned +17.82% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FARX annualized +12.41% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FARX or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.0% for FARX. Worst drawdown: FARX -5.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FARX and VXUS?
FARX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FARX and VXUS?
FARX and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7871 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FARX or VXUS?
FARX yields 2.90% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so FARX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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