VBK vs VXUS
VBK vs VXUS
Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VBK | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.05% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $24.8B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.57% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 561 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.94% | +13.40% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.03% | +27.42% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.65% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.74% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -59.4% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2004 | Jan 26, 2011 |
VBK vs VXUS Performance
Vanguard Small Cap Growth ETF (VBK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VBK returned +26.03% while VXUS returned +27.42%. Year to date, VBK is up 14.94% versus a gain of 13.40% for VXUS.
Over three years, VBK compounded at +15.65% per year against +18.54% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +4.74% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VBK has the edge at +9.30% annualized vs +4.79%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VBK 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 -59.4% for VBK 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VBK charges 0.05% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $5 vs $5 annually. On income, VBK currently yields 0.57% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
VBK and VXUS share 6 holdings out of 8397 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 VBK | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| RBA:CA | 0.59% | 0.04% | 0.55% |
| ESE | 0.25% | 0.00% | 0.25% |
| GLXY | 0.14% | 0.01% | 0.13% |
| BILL | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| UUUU:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| EXHO:PA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 6 holdings VBK 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, VBK or VXUS?
VBK has an expense ratio of 0.05% while VXUS charges 0.05%. They cost the same. On a $10,000 investment, that is $0 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VBK or VXUS?
Over the past year VBK returned +26.03% vs +27.42% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), VBK annualized +9.30% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VBK or VXUS?
VBK has been the more volatile fund at 19.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: VBK -59.4% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both VBK and VXUS?
VBK and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VBK and VXUS?
VBK and VXUS share 6 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8397 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VBK or VXUS?
VBK yields 0.57% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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