MUSI vs VXUS
MUSI vs VXUS
American Century Multisector Income 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 | MUSI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $244M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.51% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 374 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.19% | +11.13% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.76% | +27.13% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.04% | +17.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.89% | +8.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | American Century Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 29, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
MUSI vs VXUS Performance
American Century Multisector Income ETF (MUSI) is a ETF from American Century Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MUSI returned +3.76% while VXUS returned +27.13%. Year to date, MUSI is up 0.19% versus a gain of 11.13% for VXUS.
Over three years, MUSI compounded at +6.04% per year against +17.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +1.89% and +8.71% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.66% annualized vs +1.91%. 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 5.4% for MUSI. 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 -13.9% for MUSI 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MUSI charges 0.38% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $5 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MUSI currently yields 5.51% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
MUSI and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8009 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 MUSI | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSBA:LN | 0.19% | 0.72% | 0.53% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MUSI or VXUS?
MUSI has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MUSI or VXUS?
Over the past year MUSI returned +3.76% vs +27.13% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), MUSI annualized +1.91% vs +4.66% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MUSI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.4% for MUSI. Worst drawdown: MUSI -13.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both MUSI and VXUS?
MUSI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MUSI and VXUS?
MUSI and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8009 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MUSI or VXUS?
MUSI yields 5.51% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so MUSI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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