FTBD vs VXUS
FTBD vs VXUS
Fidelity Tactical 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 | FTBD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.55% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $37M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.46% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,525 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.66% | +11.69% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.87% | +26.65% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.03% | +18.15% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +8.66% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.8% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 24, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FTBD vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity Tactical Bond ETF (FTBD) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FTBD returned +2.87% while VXUS returned +26.65%. Year to date, FTBD is up 0.66% versus a gain of 11.69% for VXUS.
Over three years, FTBD compounded at +5.03% per year against +18.15% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.69% annualized vs +4.03%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% compared with 5.8% for FTBD. 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 -7.0% for FTBD 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTBD charges 0.55% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $55 vs $5 annually, a gap of $50 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTBD currently yields 5.46% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FTBD and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 8476 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTBD or VXUS?
FTBD has an expense ratio of 0.55% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $50 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTBD or VXUS?
Over the past year FTBD returned +2.87% vs +26.65% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTBD annualized +4.03% vs +4.69% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTBD or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 5.8% for FTBD. Worst drawdown: FTBD -7.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FTBD and VXUS?
FTBD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTBD and VXUS?
FTBD and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8476 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTBD or VXUS?
FTBD yields 5.46% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so FTBD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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