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Best International ETFs 2026: Top Foreign Funds Ranked

Lowest Expense Ratio
VEA (0.05%)
Vanguard Developed Markets
Highest 5-Year Return
SPDW (11.17%)
SPDR Portfolio Developed
Largest AUM
VXUS ($636B)
Vanguard Total Intl

Compare International ETFs

Fund Category Expense Ratio Div Yield AUM 1Y Return 3Y Return 5Y Return
VXUS
Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund ETF Shares
Foreign Large Blend 0.05% 2.86% $636.7B 39.91% 19.87% 9.85%
VEA
Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets Index Fund ETF Shares
Foreign Large Blend 0.03% 2.86% $307.3B 42.27% 20.74% 11.46%
VWO
Vanguard Emerging Markets Stock Index Fund
Diversified Emerging Mkts 0.06% 2.58% $158.4B 33.84% 17.42% 5.36%
IXUS
iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF
Foreign Large Blend 0.07% 2.91% $57.6B 39.95% 19.91% 9.73%
IEFA
iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF
Foreign Large Blend 0.07% 3.23% $182.6B 35.03% 18.86% 10.49%
EFA
iShares MSCI EAFE ETF
Foreign Large Blend 0.32% 3.08% $77.8B 33.70% 18.81% 10.73%
EEM
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF
Diversified Emerging Mkts 0.72% 1.94% $30.1B 48.44% 20.69% 5.53%
SPDW
State Street SPDR Portfolio Developed World ex-US ETF
Foreign Large Blend 0.03% 2.93% $38.8B 42.57% 20.59% 11.17%

5-Year Growth Comparison: Total Intl vs Developed vs Emerging

Methodology

Data is sourced directly from financial APIs, reflecting the most recent market close prices, trailing returns, and fund profiles available. Expense ratios and dividend yields are annualized. "AUM" refers to Total Assets Under Management. Performance metrics (1Y, 3Y, 5Y Returns) are trailing returns. Calculations for performance charts assume base values normalized to the earliest common start date in the 5-year historical data set.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best international ETF for 2026?
The best international ETF depends on your specific goals, but Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) and iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF (IXUS) are popular choices for broad, low-cost exposure.
What is the difference between VXUS and VEA?
VXUS covers the total international stock market, including emerging markets, while VEA focuses specifically on developed markets outside North America and excludes emerging markets.
Which is the best emerging market ETF?
Vanguard Emerging Markets Stock Index Fund (VWO) and iShares Core MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (IEMG) are two of the largest and most widely used ETFs for emerging market exposure.
Should I invest in international ETFs?
Many experts recommend international ETFs for diversification, as they can reduce overall portfolio risk and capture growth in global markets that may outperform domestic markets during certain periods.
Do international ETFs pay dividends?
Yes, many international ETFs pay dividends. Historically, international stocks often have higher dividend yields than U.S. stocks, making them attractive for income-focused investors.

Cite This Page

Westmount Fundamentals. "Best International ETFs 2026: Top Foreign Funds Ranked." westmountfundamentals.com/best-international-etfs-2026, 2026.

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