RECS vs VXUS
RECS vs VXUS
Columbia Research Enhanced Core 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 | RECS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5.9B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 368 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +9.77% | +13.40% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.74% | +27.42% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.87% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.59% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Columbia Threadneedle Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2019 | Jan 26, 2011 |
RECS vs VXUS Performance
Columbia Research Enhanced Core ETF (RECS) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RECS returned +19.74% while VXUS returned +27.42%. Year to date, RECS is up 9.77% versus a gain of 13.40% for VXUS.
Over three years, RECS compounded at +20.87% per year against +18.54% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +13.59% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.79% annualized vs +3.98%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RECS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -34.3% for RECS 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RECS charges 0.15% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $5 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RECS currently yields 1.05% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
RECS and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 8215 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in RECS | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| QSR:CA | 0.30% | 0.05% | 0.25% |
| HBAN | 0.22% | 0.05% | 0.17% |
| KR | 0.26% | 0.00% | 0.26% |
| CNHI:AS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| JHX:AU | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CAN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 6 holdings RECS 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, RECS or VXUS?
RECS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RECS or VXUS?
Over the past year RECS returned +19.74% vs +27.42% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), RECS annualized +3.98% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RECS or VXUS?
RECS has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: RECS -34.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both RECS and VXUS?
RECS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RECS and VXUS?
RECS and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8215 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RECS or VXUS?
RECS yields 1.05% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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