FNCL vs VXUS
FNCL vs VXUS
Fidelity MSCI Financials Index 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 | FNCL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.2B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.65% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 381 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.02% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.38% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.48% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.43% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 21, 2013 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FNCL vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity MSCI Financials Index ETF (FNCL) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FNCL returned +14.38% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, FNCL is up 7.02% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, FNCL compounded at +20.48% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.43% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, FNCL has the edge at +10.73% annualized vs +4.81%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FNCL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.6% 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 -45.0% for FNCL 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FNCL charges 0.08% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $5 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FNCL currently yields 1.65% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FNCL and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 8223 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FNCL or VXUS?
FNCL has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FNCL or VXUS?
Over the past year FNCL returned +14.38% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FNCL annualized +10.73% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FNCL or VXUS?
FNCL has been the more volatile fund at 18.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FNCL -45.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FNCL and VXUS?
FNCL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FNCL and VXUS?
FNCL and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8223 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FNCL or VXUS?
FNCL yields 1.65% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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