LTL vs VXUS
LTL vs VXUS
ProShares Ultra Communication Services 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 | LTL | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $6M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.07% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -11.56% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.25% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +29.54% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +15.83% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 34.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 25, 2008 | Jan 26, 2011 |
LTL vs VXUS Performance
ProShares Ultra Communication Services (LTL) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LTL returned +1.25% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, LTL is down 11.56% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, LTL compounded at +29.54% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +15.83% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, LTL has the edge at +5.87% annualized vs +4.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LTL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 34.2% 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 -80.7% for LTL 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LTL charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LTL currently yields 1.07% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
LTL and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7883 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, LTL or VXUS?
LTL has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LTL or VXUS?
Over the past year LTL returned +1.25% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), LTL annualized +5.87% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LTL or VXUS?
LTL has been the more volatile fund at 34.2% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: LTL -80.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both LTL and VXUS?
LTL and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LTL and VXUS?
LTL and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7883 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LTL or VXUS?
LTL yields 1.07% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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