Summit Showdown|
4 min
Updated December 2025
VXUS vs IXUS: Best International Stock ETF for 2026?
Comparing Vanguard vs iShares Total International Stock ETFs for global diversification.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Metric
VXUS
IXUS
Expense Ratio
0.08%
0.07%
Dividend Yield
3.05%
2.95%
5Y Total Return
5.8%
5.6%
Volatility
16.2%
16.4%
Distribution
Quarterly
Quarterly
Tax Efficiency
Medium
Medium
The Verdict by Scenario
Scenario
Slightly lower cost
IXUS
IXUS edges out VXUS by 0.01% in expense ratio, minimal but technically the cost leader.
Scenario
Higher dividend yield
VXUS
VXUS yields slightly more, providing marginally better income for international allocation.
Scenario
Ecosystem fit
🤝Tie
Choose VXUS for Vanguard portfolios, IXUS for iShares, performance is nearly identical either way.
In This Showdown
Compare Any ETFs
Use our interactive tool to compare expense ratios, yields, and growth projections.
LaunchSection 1International Twins
VXUS and IXUS both provide total international stock market exposure, developed and emerging markets excluding the US. They're designed to complement VTI/ITOT for a complete global portfolio. Differences are minimal: slightly different index providers (FTSE vs MSCI) and basis points in fees.
Section 2VXUS: The Vanguard Choice
VXUS tracks the FTSE Global All Cap ex US Index, covering 7,000+ stocks across 45+ countries. At 0.08%, it's extremely cost-effective for international exposure. Pairs naturally with VTI for a two-fund global portfolio. FTSE classifies South Korea as developed market.
Section 3IXUS: The iShares Alternative
IXUS tracks the MSCI ACWI ex USA Investable Market Index, similar coverage to VXUS. The 0.07% expense ratio is marginally lower. MSCI classifies South Korea as emerging market, a minor composition difference. Choose IXUS to complement ITOT in an iShares portfolio.
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Updated December 2025