MFSM vs VXUS
MFSM vs VXUS
MFS Active Intermediate Muni 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 | MFSM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.34% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $100M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.55% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 305 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.64% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.59% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2024 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MFSM vs VXUS Performance
MFS Active Intermediate Muni Bond ETF (MFSM) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFSM returned +4.59% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, MFSM is up 0.64% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 3.7% for MFSM. 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 -3.9% for MFSM 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFSM charges 0.34% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $34 vs $5 annually, a gap of $29 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFSM currently yields 3.55% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MFSM and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7946 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, MFSM or VXUS?
MFSM has an expense ratio of 0.34% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $29 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFSM or VXUS?
Over the past year MFSM returned +4.59% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MFSM annualized +2.71% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFSM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 3.7% for MFSM. Worst drawdown: MFSM -3.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MFSM and VXUS?
MFSM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFSM and VXUS?
MFSM and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7946 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFSM or VXUS?
MFSM yields 3.55% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MFSM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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