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Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Small-Cap Index Fund ETF Shares (VSS)



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Upturn Advisory Summary
10/10/2025: VSS (1-star) has a low Upturn Star Rating. Not recommended to BUY.
Analysis of Past Performance
Type ETF | Historic Profit -2.5% | Avg. Invested days 45 | Today’s Advisory WEAK BUY |
Upturn Star Rating ![]() ![]() | Upturn Advisory Performance ![]() | ETF Returns Performance ![]() |
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Key Highlights
Volume (30-day avg) - | Beta 1.06 | 52 Weeks Range 102.17 - 133.94 | Updated Date 06/29/2025 |
52 Weeks Range 102.17 - 133.94 | Updated Date 06/29/2025 |
Upturn AI SWOT
Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Small-Cap Index Fund ETF Shares
ETF Overview
Overview
The Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Small-Cap ETF (VSS) seeks to track the performance of the FTSE Global Small Cap ex US Index, providing exposure to small-capitalization stocks located in developed and emerging markets outside the United States. The ETF aims for long-term capital appreciation by investing in a diversified portfolio of non-US small-cap stocks.
Reputation and Reliability
Vanguard is a well-respected and reliable issuer known for its low-cost investment products and long-term investment philosophy.
Management Expertise
Vanguard has extensive experience in managing index-tracking ETFs, with a team of investment professionals dedicated to portfolio management and index replication.
Investment Objective
Goal
To track the performance of a benchmark index that measures the investment return of small-capitalization stocks of companies located in developed and emerging markets, excluding the United States.
Investment Approach and Strategy
Strategy: The ETF employs a passive management strategy designed to track the FTSE Global Small Cap ex US Index.
Composition The ETF holds a diversified portfolio of small-cap stocks from various countries outside the US.
Market Position
Market Share: VSS has a notable market share within the category of international small-cap ETFs, though the exact percentage fluctuates and depends on the specific definition of the competitive universe.
Total Net Assets (AUM): 15750000000
Competitors
Key Competitors
- iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA)
- Schwab International Small-Cap Equity ETF (SCHC)
- Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS)
Competitive Landscape
The international small-cap ETF market is competitive, with VSS competing against larger, broader international ETFs and other small-cap specific funds. VSS benefits from Vanguard's low-cost structure and established brand. However, some competitors offer different index methodologies or broader coverage.
Financial Performance
Historical Performance: Historical performance data (annualized returns): [3.14, 7.95, 4.85, 10.76, -12.37] for the last 1, 3, 5, 10 years and YTD respectively.
Benchmark Comparison: The ETF's performance closely tracks the FTSE Global Small Cap ex US Index, with minor deviations due to expenses and tracking error.
Expense Ratio: 0.07
Liquidity
Average Trading Volume
VSS has a good liquidity profile, as evidenced by its decent average daily trading volume.
Bid-Ask Spread
VSS typically has a relatively tight bid-ask spread, indicating lower trading costs.
Market Dynamics
Market Environment Factors
Economic indicators, sector growth prospects outside the US, and global market conditions significantly influence VSS. Currency fluctuations and geopolitical risks in international markets can also impact performance.
Growth Trajectory
The growth trajectory of VSS depends on the performance of international small-cap equities. Any shift in global trade policies or emerging market growth can affect the fund's holdings.
Moat and Competitive Advantages
Competitive Edge
VSS benefits from Vanguard's reputation for low-cost investing and its established index-tracking expertise. Its focus on international small-cap equities offers investors diversification benefits. The fund's broad market coverage within its target segment gives it a competitive advantage. Investors seeking diversified exposure to non-U.S. small caps often choose VSS. The low expense ratio further enhances its appeal.
Risk Analysis
Volatility
VSS, investing in small-cap companies, is more volatile than broad market ETFs, and its historical volatility is moderate to high.
Market Risk
Specific risks include currency risk, political instability in emerging markets, and economic downturns impacting the fund's underlying assets.
Investor Profile
Ideal Investor Profile
Investors seeking international diversification with a focus on small-cap stocks and a higher risk tolerance are ideal candidates for VSS.
Market Risk
VSS is suitable for long-term investors seeking capital appreciation and willing to accept the volatility associated with small-cap stocks.
Summary
Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Small-Cap ETF (VSS) offers investors diversified exposure to small-cap equities in developed and emerging markets, excluding the United States. As a Vanguard fund, it benefits from a low expense ratio and a reputable issuer. While it exhibits higher volatility due to its focus on small-cap companies, it provides diversification benefits for investors seeking global equity exposure. Its performance closely tracks the FTSE Global Small Cap ex US Index, making it a suitable option for passive index followers.
Peer Comparison
Sources and Disclaimers
Data Sources:
- Vanguard's official website
- ETF.com
- Morningstar
Disclaimers:
The data and analysis provided are for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Market conditions and fund performance can change.
AI Summarization is directionally correct and might not be accurate.
Summarized information shown could be a few years old and not current.
Fundamental Rating based on AI could be based on old data.
AI-generated summaries may have inaccuracies (hallucinations). Please verify the information before taking action.
About Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Small-Cap Index Fund ETF Shares
Exchange NYSE ARCA | Headquaters - | ||
IPO Launch date - | CEO - | ||
Sector - | Industry - | Full time employees - | Website |
Full time employees - | Website |
The fund employs an indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the index. The advisor attempts to sample the target index by investing all, or substantially all, of its assets in common stocks in the index and by holding a representative sample of securities that resembles the full index in terms of key risk factors and other characteristics.

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