RFG vs VXUS
RFG vs VXUS
Invesco S&P Midcap 400 Pure 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 | RFG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $345M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.14% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 98 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.28% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.72% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.30% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.76% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -52.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Invesco (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 1, 2006 | Jan 26, 2011 |
RFG vs VXUS Performance
Invesco S&P Midcap 400 Pure Growth ETF (RFG) is a ETF from Invesco (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RFG returned +22.72% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, RFG is up 15.28% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, RFG compounded at +15.30% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.76% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, RFG has the edge at +9.35% annualized vs +4.81%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RFG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.6% 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 -52.0% for RFG 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RFG charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RFG currently yields 0.14% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RFG or VXUS?
RFG has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RFG or VXUS?
Over the past year RFG returned +22.72% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), RFG annualized +9.35% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RFG or VXUS?
RFG has been the more volatile fund at 19.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: RFG -52.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both RFG and VXUS?
RFG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RFG and VXUS?
RFG and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7957 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RFG or VXUS?
RFG yields 0.14% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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