FLCB vs VXUS
FLCB vs VXUS
Franklin US Core Bond 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 | FLCB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $3.0B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.23% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 473 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.51% | +11.13% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.73% | +27.13% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.97% | +17.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.54% | +8.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 17, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FLCB vs VXUS Performance
Franklin US Core Bond ETF (FLCB) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FLCB returned +2.73% while VXUS returned +27.13%. Year to date, FLCB is down 0.51% versus a gain of 11.13% for VXUS.
Over three years, FLCB compounded at +3.97% per year against +17.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -0.54% and +8.71% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.66% annualized vs +0.17%. 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 5.7% for FLCB. 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 -20.4% for FLCB 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLCB charges 0.15% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $5 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLCB currently yields 4.23% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FLCB and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8214 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 FLCB | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| LOGG3:BV | 0.21% | 0.00% | 0.21% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLCB or VXUS?
FLCB has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLCB or VXUS?
Over the past year FLCB returned +2.73% vs +27.13% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), FLCB annualized +0.17% vs +4.66% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLCB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.7% for FLCB. Worst drawdown: FLCB -20.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FLCB and VXUS?
FLCB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLCB and VXUS?
FLCB and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8214 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLCB or VXUS?
FLCB yields 4.23% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so FLCB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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