USTB vs VXUS
USTB vs VXUS
VictoryShares Short-Term 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 | USTB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.34% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.58% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 922 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.80% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.93% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.86% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.56% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Victory Capital Management Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 24, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
USTB vs VXUS Performance
VictoryShares Short-Term Bond ETF (USTB) is a ETF from Victory Capital Management Inc. and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year USTB returned +3.93% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, USTB is up 1.80% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, USTB compounded at +5.86% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.56% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.80% annualized vs +2.51%. 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 2.4% for USTB. 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 -5.5% for USTB 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
USTB charges 0.34% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $34 vs $5 annually, a gap of $29 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, USTB currently yields 4.58% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
USTB and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8602 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, USTB or VXUS?
USTB has an expense ratio of 0.34% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $29 per year of difference.
Which performed better, USTB or VXUS?
Over the past year USTB returned +3.93% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), USTB annualized +2.51% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, USTB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 2.4% for USTB. Worst drawdown: USTB -5.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both USTB and VXUS?
USTB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between USTB and VXUS?
USTB and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8602 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, USTB or VXUS?
USTB yields 4.58% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so USTB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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