LGOV vs VXUS
LGOV vs VXUS
First Trust Long Duration Opportunities 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 | LGOV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $622M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.25% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 163 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -1.53% | +11.69% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.02% | +26.65% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.33% | +18.15% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.72% | +8.66% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.9% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 22, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
LGOV vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Long Duration Opportunities ETF (LGOV) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LGOV returned +1.02% while VXUS returned +26.65%. Year to date, LGOV is down 1.53% versus a gain of 11.69% for VXUS.
Over three years, LGOV compounded at +3.33% per year against +18.15% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -2.72% and +8.66% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.69% annualized vs +0.03%. 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 8.9% for LGOV. 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 -33.0% for LGOV 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 0.41. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LGOV charges 0.49% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $5 annually, a gap of $44 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LGOV currently yields 4.25% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
LGOV and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7960 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, LGOV or VXUS?
LGOV has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $44 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LGOV or VXUS?
Over the past year LGOV returned +1.02% vs +26.65% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), LGOV annualized +0.03% vs +4.69% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LGOV or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 8.9% for LGOV. Worst drawdown: LGOV -33.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both LGOV and VXUS?
LGOV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.41, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LGOV and VXUS?
LGOV and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7960 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LGOV or VXUS?
LGOV yields 4.25% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so LGOV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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