iShares Russell 2000 ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund ETF — how do they compare? iShares Russell 2000 ETF trades at $294.43, while Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund ETF trades at $84.11. Which is the better fit depends on your goals.
| IWM | VXUS | |
|---|---|---|
52-Week High | $300.45 | $87.06 |
52-Week Low | $214.95 | $68.24 |
Sector | — | Sector/Thematic |
Signals from Pluang's Aura AI — not financial advice
IWM, the iShares Russell 2000 ETF, trades at $292.34, down 0.6% on the day. Technical indicators are mixed with a neutral overall signal, while moving averages show a bullish bias. The ETF has seen strong institutional inflows, with firms like AIA Group and Allspring Global Investments increasing their holdings significantly in Q1 2026 (SEC 13F filings, July 2026). Small-cap stocks have outperformed large-caps year-to-date, with the Russell 2000 up approximately 20% in 2026 (24/7 Wall Street, July 17, 2026).
The outlook for IWM hinges on continued small-cap strength, which is sensitive to interest rates and economic growth. While recent performance is robust, risks include higher volatility versus large-caps and potential Fed policy shifts. Analyst sentiment is divided, with some highlighting valuation concerns versus broader market ETFs.
VXUS trades at $83.07, down 0.36% with a bearish technical signal from moving averages. The ETF provides diversified international exposure across 8,700+ stocks in developed and emerging markets. Recent institutional buying includes Greenwood Gearhart increasing its position by 45.8% in Q1 2026 (SEC filing, July 20, 2026). Technical indicators show neutral oscillators with support at $82 and resistance at $84.
VXUS offers cost-effective international diversification at a 0.05% expense ratio, trading at a discount to US equities. Risks include global economic sensitivity and currency fluctuations. Analyst sentiment is mixed with some caution due to inflation concerns, but long-term value exists for investors seeking non-US exposure.
Trailing returns across standard periods
Latest headlines on both assets
The ETF is designed to track the performance of the securities and the stocks in the Russell 2000 Index. To maintain the composition and weightings, the advisor adjusts the ETF from time to time to conform to periodic changes in the index target.
Read more on IWM →VXUS is a comprehensive, low-cost ETF that tracks the FTSE Global All Cap ex US Index, providing exposure to over 8,500 stocks in both developed and emerging markets outside the United States. It serves as a foundational building block for international diversification, allowing investors to own a market-cap-weighted slice of the entire non-U.S. investable equity universe in a single vehicle.
Read more on VXUS →