ICSH vs VXUS
ICSH vs VXUS
iShares Ultra Short Duration Bond Active 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 | ICSH | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $8.1B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.33% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 377 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -0.04% | +11.13% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.64% | +27.13% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.23% | +17.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.29% | +8.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.3% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2013 | Jan 26, 2011 |
ICSH vs VXUS Performance
iShares Ultra Short Duration Bond Active ETF (ICSH) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ICSH returned +1.64% while VXUS returned +27.13%. Year to date, ICSH is down 0.04% versus a gain of 11.13% for VXUS.
Over three years, ICSH compounded at +4.23% per year against +17.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.29% and +8.71% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.66% annualized vs +2.13%. 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 10.3% for ICSH. 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 -23.3% for ICSH 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 0.06. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ICSH 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, ICSH currently yields 4.33% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
ICSH and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7989 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, ICSH or VXUS?
ICSH 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, ICSH or VXUS?
Over the past year ICSH returned +1.64% vs +27.13% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), ICSH annualized +2.13% vs +4.66% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ICSH or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 10.3% for ICSH. Worst drawdown: ICSH -23.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both ICSH and VXUS?
ICSH and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.06, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ICSH and VXUS?
ICSH and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7989 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ICSH or VXUS?
ICSH yields 4.33% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so ICSH currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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