MGF vs VXUS

Quick Verdict

VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7860 holdings.

Lower Fees: TiedHigher Returns: VXUSMore Diversified: VXUS

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricMGFVXUSWinner
Expense Ratio-0.05%
AUM$99M$156.5B
Dividend Yield7.50%2.60%
Holdings4568,747
YTD Return-1.94%+13.65%
1Y Return-1.27%+28.53%
3Y Return (annualized)+3.71%+18.64%
5Y Return (annualized)-1.30%+9.00%
Volatility (annualized)8.1%15.1%
Max Drawdown-55.5%-39.9%
Fund FamilyAberdeen Asset ManagementVanguard (US)
CategoryFixed IncomeEquity
InceptionMay 28, 1987Jan 26, 2011

MGF vs VXUS Performance

Aberdeen Government Markets Income Fund (MGF) is a ETF from Aberdeen Asset Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MGF returned -1.27% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, MGF is down 1.94% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.

Over three years, MGF compounded at +3.71% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -1.30% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.81% annualized vs -1.30%. 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 8.1% for MGF. 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 -55.5% for MGF 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 0.33. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

MGF and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8038 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.

Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which performed better, MGF or VXUS?

Over the past year MGF returned -1.27% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), MGF annualized -1.30% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, MGF or VXUS?

VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 8.1% for MGF. Worst drawdown: MGF -55.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.

Should I hold both MGF and VXUS?

MGF and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.33, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

What is the holdings overlap between MGF and VXUS?

MGF and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8038 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, MGF or VXUS?

MGF yields 7.50% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MGF currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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