MMSC vs VXUS
MMSC vs VXUS
First Trust Multi-Manager Small Cap Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. MMSC delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7860 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MMSC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $51M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 202 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +17.19% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.89% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.79% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 13, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MMSC vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Multi-Manager Small Cap Opportunities ETF (MMSC) 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 MMSC returned +35.89% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, MMSC is up 17.19% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, MMSC compounded at +20.79% per year against +18.64% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, MMSC has the edge at +7.16% annualized vs +4.81%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MMSC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.5% 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 -40.8% for MMSC 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 0.66. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MMSC 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, MMSC currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MMSC and VXUS share 8 holdings out of 8060 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MMSC | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESE | 0.46% | 0.00% | 0.46% |
| DSG:CA | 0.38% | 0.01% | 0.37% |
| TSEM | 0.36% | 0.03% | 0.33% |
| CCJ | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| JHX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| AII:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CAMT | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| MX:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 8 holdings MMSC 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, MMSC or VXUS?
MMSC 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, MMSC or VXUS?
Over the past year MMSC returned +35.89% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so MMSC leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MMSC annualized +7.16% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MMSC or VXUS?
MMSC has been the more volatile fund at 21.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: MMSC -40.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MMSC and VXUS?
MMSC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.66, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MMSC and VXUS?
MMSC and VXUS share 8 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8060 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MMSC or VXUS?
MMSC yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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