FGSM vs VXUS
FGSM vs VXUS
Frontier Asset Global Small Cap Equity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FGSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FGSM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.82% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $50M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.28% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +18.80% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.79% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Frontier Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 19, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FGSM vs VXUS Performance
Frontier Asset Global Small Cap Equity ETF (FGSM) is a ETF from Frontier Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FGSM returned +31.79% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, FGSM is up 18.80% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 11.8% for FGSM. 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 -17.7% for FGSM 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FGSM charges 0.82% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $82 vs $5 annually, a gap of $77 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FGSM currently yields 1.28% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FGSM and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7867 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FGSM or VXUS?
FGSM has an expense ratio of 0.82% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $77 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FGSM or VXUS?
Over the past year FGSM returned +31.79% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so FGSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FGSM annualized +26.02% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FGSM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 11.8% for FGSM. Worst drawdown: FGSM -17.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FGSM and VXUS?
FGSM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FGSM and VXUS?
FGSM and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7867 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FGSM or VXUS?
FGSM yields 1.28% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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