QLD vs VXUS
QLD vs VXUS
ProShares Ultra QQQ vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. QLD delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7860 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | QLD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $12.5B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.12% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 127 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +29.64% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +50.92% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +40.61% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +18.65% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 38.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -84.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
QLD vs VXUS Performance
ProShares Ultra QQQ (QLD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QLD returned +50.92% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, QLD is up 29.64% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, QLD compounded at +40.61% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +18.65% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, QLD has the edge at +24.42% annualized vs +4.81%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
QLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 38.1% 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 -84.0% for QLD 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QLD 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, QLD currently yields 0.12% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
QLD and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 7958 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in QLD | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASML:AS | 0.48% | 1.29% | 0.81% |
| SHOP:CA | 0.42% | 0.33% | 0.09% |
| PDD:IE | 0.16% | 0.18% | 0.02% |
| FER:AS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CCEP:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| TRI:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 6 holdings QLD 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, QLD or VXUS?
QLD 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, QLD or VXUS?
Over the past year QLD returned +50.92% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so QLD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), QLD annualized +24.42% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QLD or VXUS?
QLD has been the more volatile fund at 38.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: QLD -84.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both QLD and VXUS?
QLD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QLD and VXUS?
QLD and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 1.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7958 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QLD or VXUS?
QLD yields 0.12% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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