SYSB vs VXUS
SYSB vs VXUS
iShares Systematic Bond 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 | SYSB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.2B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.60% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 843 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -2.56% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.30% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +1.43% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.88% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 24, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SYSB vs VXUS Performance
iShares Systematic Bond ETF (SYSB) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SYSB returned -1.30% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, SYSB is down 2.56% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, SYSB compounded at +1.43% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -2.88% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.81% annualized vs -1.14%. 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 4.6% for SYSB. 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 -22.4% for SYSB 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SYSB charges 0.25% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $5 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SYSB currently yields 4.60% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SYSB and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 8551 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 SYSB | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| LOGG3:BV | 0.01% | 0.00% | 0.01% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SYSB or VXUS?
SYSB has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SYSB or VXUS?
Over the past year SYSB returned -1.30% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), SYSB annualized -1.14% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SYSB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 4.6% for SYSB. Worst drawdown: SYSB -22.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SYSB and VXUS?
SYSB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SYSB and VXUS?
SYSB and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8551 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SYSB or VXUS?
SYSB yields 4.60% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SYSB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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