PWS vs VXUS
PWS vs VXUS
Pacer WealthShield 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PWS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $24M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.29% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 235 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +0.74% | +13.40% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.52% | +27.42% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.78% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.51% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Pacer ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PWS vs VXUS Performance
Pacer WealthShield ETF (PWS) is a ETF from Pacer ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PWS returned +5.52% while VXUS returned +27.42%. Year to date, PWS is up 0.74% versus a gain of 13.40% for VXUS.
Over three years, PWS compounded at +6.78% per year against +18.54% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +1.51% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.79% annualized vs +4.41%. 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 12.5% for PWS. 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 -24.9% for PWS 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 0.45. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PWS charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PWS currently yields 1.29% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PWS or VXUS?
PWS has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PWS or VXUS?
Over the past year PWS returned +5.52% vs +27.42% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), PWS annualized +4.41% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PWS or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.5% for PWS. Worst drawdown: PWS -24.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PWS and VXUS?
PWS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.45, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PWS and VXUS?
PWS and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8188 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PWS or VXUS?
PWS yields 1.29% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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