FFSM vs VXUS
FFSM vs VXUS
Fidelity Fundamental Small-Mid Cap ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FFSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7860 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FFSM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.43% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 194 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +21.92% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.85% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.51% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.33% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 2, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FFSM vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity Fundamental Small-Mid Cap ETF (FFSM) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FFSM returned +37.85% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, FFSM is up 21.92% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FFSM compounded at +19.51% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.33% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FFSM has the edge at +12.49% annualized vs +4.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FFSM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.8% 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 -26.6% for FFSM 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FFSM charges 0.43% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $5 annually, a gap of $38 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FFSM currently yields 0.43% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FFSM and VXUS share 7 holdings out of 8043 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FFSM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIGI:CA | 0.64% | 0.01% | 0.63% |
| SIG:LN | 0.51% | 0.02% | 0.49% |
| GIL:CA | 0.45% | 0.03% | 0.42% |
| TFPM:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| GFL:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| NVMI:IL | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ARGX:AS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 7 holdings FFSM 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, FFSM or VXUS?
FFSM has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $38 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FFSM or VXUS?
Over the past year FFSM returned +37.85% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so FFSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FFSM annualized +12.49% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FFSM or VXUS?
FFSM has been the more volatile fund at 18.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FFSM -26.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FFSM and VXUS?
FFSM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FFSM and VXUS?
FFSM and VXUS share 7 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8043 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FFSM or VXUS?
FFSM yields 0.43% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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