MFUS vs VXUS
MFUS vs VXUS
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor US Equity 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 | MFUS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $296M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 858 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.14% | +11.13% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.56% | +27.13% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.24% | +17.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.89% | +8.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | PIMCO (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 31, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MFUS vs VXUS Performance
PIMCO RAFI Dynamic Multi-Factor US Equity ETF (MFUS) is a ETF from PIMCO (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFUS returned +24.56% while VXUS returned +27.13%. Year to date, MFUS is up 15.14% versus a gain of 11.13% for VXUS.
Over three years, MFUS compounded at +19.24% per year against +17.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.89% and +8.71% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, MFUS has the edge at +12.53% annualized vs +4.66%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MFUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.7% 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 -35.2% for MFUS 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFUS charges 0.29% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $5 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFUS currently yields 1.37% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MFUS and VXUS share 9 holdings out of 8695 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MFUS | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORCL | 0.85% | 0.00% | 0.85% |
| KR | 0.38% | 0.00% | 0.38% |
| 2345:TW | 0.16% | 0.05% | 0.11% |
| IRM | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SIG:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SRE | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| AM | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| DCH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SCL | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 9 holdings MFUS shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MFUS or VXUS?
MFUS has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFUS or VXUS?
Over the past year MFUS returned +24.56% vs +27.13% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MFUS annualized +12.53% vs +4.66% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFUS or VXUS?
MFUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MFUS -35.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MFUS and VXUS?
MFUS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFUS and VXUS?
MFUS and VXUS share 9 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8695 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFUS or VXUS?
MFUS yields 1.37% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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