What is the primary difference between VEA and VXUS?

VEA focuses on developed international markets, while VXUS provides broader exposure to total international stocks, including emerging markets. Both are Vanguard ETFs with low expense ratios, but their investment scopes differ significantly. This means VXUS offers a wider geographic diversification compared to VEA, which is more concentrated on established economies. Investors should consider their desired level of international market exposure when comparing these funds.

How do expense ratios differ between VEA and VXUS?

VEA has an expense ratio of 0.03%, while VXUS charges 0.05%. Although both are considered low-cost options, VEA is slightly cheaper. The 0.02% difference may seem minor, but over time, lower fees can enhance net returns by reducing costs compounded annually. Investors should weigh this cost difference against the desired breadth of exposure provided by each fund, as fees can accumulate meaningfully over longer investment horizons.

What do the net assets indicate for each fund?

VEA manages $233.8 billion in net assets, whereas VXUS oversees $164.0 billion. Larger net assets generally suggest higher liquidity and stability in fund operations. This can facilitate easier trading and potentially tighter bid-ask spreads for investors. Both figures indicate substantial scale, supporting operational efficiency. However, the choice between funds might depend more on investment strategy than asset size alone, as both have sufficient resources to function effectively.

How does dividend yield compare between VEA and VXUS?

VEA offers a dividend yield of 2.35%, slightly higher than VXUS's 2.28%. While this difference is small, it could influence investors focused on income generation. The yield reflects the funds' underlying holdings' distribution practices. Dividend yields can fluctuate based on market conditions and company payout policies, so investors should consider them alongside other factors like expense ratios and potential growth when evaluating income opportunities.

What are the top holdings and sector weight details?

Specific index tracking details and sector weights are not available for either fund. This lack of transparency can hinder precise analysis of their holdings' distribution. For VEA, SHOP constitutes 0.54% of the top holding, indicating limited concentration. Understanding these elements is crucial for assessing potential risks and diversification benefits. Investors may need to rely on broader strategic goals rather than specific holding data when evaluating these ETFs.

What is the inception date significance for both funds?

VEA was launched on Jul 20, 2007, while VXUS started on Jan 26, 2011. These dates signify different historical contexts under which each fund operated. Early establishment might imply a longer track record and stability for VEA, potentially appealing to investors seeking experienced fund management. VXUS's later inception could relate to evolving market demands for comprehensive international exposure. Each fund’s age provides insights into its strategic positioning within the ETF landscape.

How does each fund align with current market conditions?

In varying market conditions, VEA might appeal to those seeking stability from developed international markets, while VXUS could suit investors looking for broader diversification including emerging markets. Current global economic trends can affect the performance of each fund differently. Developed markets often provide resilience during downturns, whereas emerging markets may offer higher growth potential alongside increased volatility. Investors should align their choices with prevailing market dynamics and personal risk tolerances.

Why is liquidity important when choosing between these ETFs?

Liquidity ensures ease of buying or selling without significantly affecting the price. With VEA managing $233.8 billion and VXUS $164.0 billion, both have substantial resources to support high liquidity. This benefits investors seeking flexibility and minimal transaction costs. Adequate liquidity mitigates the risk of large spreads and slippage, ensuring investors can enter or exit positions efficiently. Thus, considering liquidity is vital when selecting an ETF to match short-term or long-term needs.

How can one start investing in VEA or VXUS?

To invest in VEA or VXUS, open a brokerage account and search for the respective ticker symbols. Review their expense ratios, dividends, and market conditions before purchasing. Consider setting up automatic investments to take advantage of dollar-cost averaging. Always evaluate your investment strategy and risk tolerance. Additionally, monitor any changes in fund management fees or market performance to maintain optimal portfolio alignment with your goals.

What resources help compare VEA and VXUS effectively?

Use financial news outlets, brokerage platforms, and Vanguard's official website for up-to-date information on VEA and VXUS. Compare performance data, expense ratios, and market conditions via these sources. Engaging with investor forums can provide insights into real-world experiences with these funds. Additionally, consider subscribing to newsletters or alerts that focus on ETFs to stay informed about changes that may affect your investment decisions. Educational resources ensure informed choices without direct advice.

What educational disclaimer accompanies these comparisons?

This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Individual investment decisions should account for personal financial situations and objectives. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment choices. Market conditions and fund performances can change, so staying informed and seeking professional guidance is advisable for a balanced investment strategy.

VEA vs VXUS

Two funds, one decision: we compare cost, performance and what each ETF actually holds in September 2026.

Compare VEA (Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF) and VXUS (Total International Stock Vanguard ETF). This page examines fees, holdings, dividends, and how each fund tracks its market. Educational content, not financial advice.

Fund Snapshot

Key Fund Metrics

VEA

Metric

VXUS

0.03%

Expense Ratio

0.05%

2.35%

Dividend Yield

2.28%

$233.81B

Net Assets

$164.04B

3,922

Holdings

8,860

Jul 20, 2007

Inception Date

Jan 26, 2011

–

Index Tracked

–

Foreign Large Blend

Fund Category

Foreign Large Blend

VEA costs about $2.00 less per year for every $10,000 invested.

Shared Top Holdings

These funds do not share any of their top holdings.

Discover More Comparisons

VEA vs VEU

Compare VEA and VEU on fees, holdings, dividends and tracking. Review Vanguard's developed markets versus all-world ex-US scopes to assess suitability.

VEA vs VWO

Compare VEA and VWO on 0.03% and 0.06% expense ratios, $233.8bn and $126.6bn assets, 2.35% and 1.99% yields, holdings and tracked index data.

AVDE vs VXUS

Compare AVDE and VXUS international equity ETFs. Analyze expense ratios, dividend yields, top holdings, and tracking differences between the two funds.

Investment Analysis

VEA

Pros

VEA offers a very low expense ratio of 0.03% which helps preserve investor returns over time.
The fund manages substantial net assets of $233.8 billion, supporting high liquidity and operational stability.
With a dividend yield of 2.35%, VEA provides a relatively steady income stream for investors.

Considerations

Index tracking methodology details are not available, limiting transparency on specific benchmark adherence.
Sector weight data is not available, making it difficult to assess specific industry exposures accurately.
The fund’s top holding represents only 0.54% of assets, indicating limited active management concentration.

VXUS

Pros

VXUS maintains a low expense ratio of 0.05%, keeping costs relatively minimal for broad market exposure.
The ETF manages $164.0 billion in net assets, ensuring sufficient scale for efficient trading and stability.
A dividend yield of 2.28% contributes to regular income generation for holders of the fund.

Considerations

Specific index tracked information is not available, obscuring the exact benchmark replication strategy details.
Top holdings data is not available, hindering precise analysis of concentration and specific stock exposure.
Sector weights are not available, preventing detailed evaluation of industry distribution and potential risk factors.

Related Market Insights

Go Global: Why Smart Money is Fleeing US Markets

Smart money is shifting from US to international markets. Discover why global ETFs offer better valuations & diversification. Invest in undervalued European & Asian stocks with Nemo's Go Global Neme.

Aimee Silverwood | Financial Analyst

25 July 2025

Read Insight

Related Market Insights

Go Global: Why Smart Money is Fleeing US Markets

Smart money is shifting from US to international markets. Discover why global ETFs offer better valuations & diversification. Invest in undervalued European & Asian stocks with Nemo's Go Global Neme.

Aimee Silverwood | Financial Analyst

25 July 2025

Read Insight

About VEA and VXUS

VEA (VEA)

The Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF (VEA) is an exchange-traded fund designed to provide investors with broad exposure to large and mid-capitalisation companies in developed markets outside the United States. It seeks to track a benchmark index comprising thousands of holdings from regions including Europe, Australasia, and Canada. With a low expense ratio of 0.03%, this fund offers a cost-effective way to diversify a portfolio beyond domestic UK and US equities. The fund’s current dividend yield stands at 2.35%, reflecting potential income generation from its global holdings. As with any investment, the value of units can go down as well as up, and past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Investors should consider their risk tolerance and financial goals carefully, noting that currency fluctuations and regional economic shifts may impact returns.

VXUS (VXUS)

Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) offers investors broad exposure to non‑US equities across developed and emerging markets. The fund tracks a global index that excludes the United States and holds thousands of stocks spanning large-, mid- and small-cap companies. It is structured as a passive, market‑capitalisation‑weighted ETF, which aims to replicate international equity market performance while keeping trading simplicity and diversification benefits. VXUS is typically unhedged to sterling or other home currencies, so returns can be affected by currency movements as well as underlying stock performance. Investors should note that, like all equity funds, values can fall as well as rise and past performance does not guarantee future results. This summary provides general, educational information and is not personalised investment advice; suitability depends on an individual’s circumstances, risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Go Global

As investors seek alternatives to US assets, these international markets are gaining attention. Our analysts have carefully selected these ETFs to help you capitalize on global opportunities and diversify beyond US borders.

Published: 8 May 2025

Explore Basket

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Go Global

Published: 8 May 2025

Explore Basket

Buy VEA or VXUS in Nemo

🆓

Zero Commission

Trade stocks, ETFs, and more with zero commission. Keep more of your returns.

🔒

Trusted & Regulated

Part of Exinity Group 2015, serving over a million customers globally.

💰

6% Interest on Cash

Earn 6% AER on uninvested cash with daily interest payments.

VEA vs VXUS

Fund Snapshot