FSLD vs VXUS
FSLD vs VXUS
Fidelity Sustainable Low Duration 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 | FSLD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.40% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 227 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.46% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.96% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.63% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 0.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -0.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 19, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FSLD vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity Sustainable Low Duration Bond ETF (FSLD) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FSLD returned +2.96% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, FSLD is up 2.46% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, FSLD compounded at +4.63% per year against +18.63% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.80% annualized vs +4.04%. 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 0.8% for FSLD. 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 -0.6% for FSLD 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 0.35. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSLD charges 0.20% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $5 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSLD currently yields 4.40% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FSLD and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8091 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, FSLD or VXUS?
FSLD has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSLD or VXUS?
Over the past year FSLD returned +2.96% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FSLD annualized +4.04% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSLD or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 0.8% for FSLD. Worst drawdown: FSLD -0.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FSLD and VXUS?
FSLD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.35, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSLD and VXUS?
FSLD and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8091 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSLD or VXUS?
FSLD yields 4.40% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so FSLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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