PGRO vs VXUS
PGRO vs VXUS
Putnam Focused Large Cap Growth 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 | PGRO | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $202M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.02% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 38 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.76% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.50% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.15% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.30% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Putnam Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PGRO vs VXUS Performance
Putnam Focused Large Cap Growth ETF (PGRO) is a ETF from Putnam Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PGRO returned +12.50% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, PGRO is up 6.76% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, PGRO compounded at +22.15% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.30% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, PGRO has the edge at +13.21% annualized vs +4.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PGRO has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.8% 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 -34.7% for PGRO 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PGRO charges 0.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $5 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PGRO currently yields 0.02% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PGRO and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7892 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in PGRO | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ORCL | 1.77% | 0.00% | 1.77% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PGRO or VXUS?
PGRO has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PGRO or VXUS?
Over the past year PGRO returned +12.50% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), PGRO annualized +13.21% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PGRO or VXUS?
PGRO has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: PGRO -34.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PGRO and VXUS?
PGRO and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PGRO and VXUS?
PGRO and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7892 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PGRO or VXUS?
PGRO yields 0.02% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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