Investors seeking to diversify beyond U.S. equity markets commonly consider exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track international stocks. Among these, the Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) and the iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF (IXUS) are prominent choices for capturing broad exposure outside the United States. Both funds target large-, mid-, and small-cap companies across developed and emerging economies, yet they embody subtle distinctions that can influence selection based on specific investor priorities.
Comparative Cost and Size Overview
Examining the funds’ fee structures and asset bases offers a foundational perspective. VXUS charges a very low expense ratio of 0.05%, slightly undercutting IXUS's 0.07%. While both fall within the realm of low-cost ETFs, this difference may be meaningful over extended investment horizons. VXUS manages a significantly larger asset pool totaling approximately $133.1 billion, compared to IXUS’s $54.4 billion, reflecting a more substantial investor base and possibly greater liquidity.
The one-year total returns, measured as of February 7, 2026, stand very close between the two, with VXUS posting 31.83% and IXUS 31.67%. Dividend yields also align closely, at 2.96% for VXUS and 3.01% for IXUS, though IXUS offers a marginally higher yield. Beta values, reflecting volatility relative to the S&P 500 over a five-year weekly return period, register 1.00 for VXUS and 0.76 for IXUS, indicating a modest difference in their price fluctuations compared to the U.S. benchmark.
Investment Performance and Risk Characteristics
Looking at performance over a longer timeframe, both funds experienced similar maximum drawdowns across a five-year span, with VXUS retreating 29.43% and IXUS 30.05%, underscoring comparable downside risk during market downturns. Growth of $1,000 invested over five years resulted in $1,277 and $1,282 for VXUS and IXUS respectively, exhibiting near-identical investment appreciation.
Portfolio Composition and Sector Allocation
The extent and nature of holdings differentiate these ETFs more distinctly. IXUS tracks an MSCI index with 4,211 securities representing various market capitalizations across international developed and emerging markets, excluding the U.S. Its largest equity positions include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Samsung Electronics Limited, and ASML Holding N.V. Sector exposure is most concentrated in financial services, industrials, and technology.
VXUS provides a broader reach with 8,602 individual stocks, effectively doubling IXUS's number of holdings. This expanded count slightly increases its weight in financial services and technology sectors as well. Notably, VXUS's largest holdings closely mirror those within IXUS, suggesting a common benchmark for top-tier stocks despite differences in total portfolio breadth.
Income Distribution Frequency
Investors may also consider the dividend payment schedule as a factor. VXUS distributes dividends quarterly, whereas IXUS provides payments semi-annually. This divergence can influence cash flow timing preferences for investors relying on these ETFs for income generation.
Considerations for Investors
Selecting between these two ETFs largely depends on preferences regarding the scope of diversification and dividend timing. VXUS’s extensive stock count offers broader international market coverage, which may appeal to investors seeking comprehensive exposure. In contrast, IXUS’s more concentrated selection may suit those comfortable with a smaller, yet still globally representative, portfolio.
It is important to recognize that both funds omit U.S. equities, meaning their performance will diverge from domestic markets. International equities often exhibit greater volatility and distinct price behaviors compared to U.S. stocks, potentially leading to higher gains or losses in different market cycles. Investors should fully assess their risk tolerance and consider familiarizing themselves with foreign markets where the largest fund holdings are based to understand potential price movements.
Ultimately, both VXUS and IXUS are robust options for international stock exposure, characterized by similar expense structures, risk profiles, and returns. The choice between the two involves evaluating nuances in portfolio breadth and dividend distribution suited to individual investment strategies.