While IEFA is Bigger and SPDW Is More Affordable, There's 1 Subtle Difference Between These International ETFs

Core Insights - The article compares two international ETFs, SPDR Portfolio Developed World ex-US ETF (SPDW) and iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA), highlighting their differences in cost, size, and yield [1][2]. Cost and Size Comparison - SPDW has a lower expense ratio of 0.03% compared to IEFA's 0.07% [3]. - As of December 12, 2025, SPDW's one-year return is 26.6%, while IEFA's is 16.0% [3]. - SPDW has a dividend yield of 2.6%, slightly lower than IEFA's 2.9% [3]. - Assets under management (AUM) for SPDW is $33.3 billion, significantly smaller than IEFA's $163.0 billion [3]. Performance and Risk Metrics - Over five years, SPDW's maximum drawdown is -30.20%, while IEFA's is -30.41% [5]. - The growth of $1,000 invested over five years is $1,335 for SPDW and $1,330 for IEFA [5]. Sector Allocation and Holdings - IEFA includes 2,600 developed-market stocks, with major sectors being financial services (23%), industrials (20%), and healthcare (10%) [6]. - SPDW has a similar sector allocation, with top sectors being financial services (23%), industrials (19%), and technology (11%) [7]. - The largest holdings for both ETFs include ASML, AstraZeneca, and Roche, with SPDW also holding Samsung [7]. Investment Implications - Both ETFs provide pathways for international exposure, with IEFA being larger in terms of holdings and assets but with a higher expense ratio [8]. - SPDW offers broader international exposure by including Canadian companies, which constitute 11% of its geographical weighting [9]. - For investors prioritizing low cost and broad international exposure, SPDW is highlighted as a favorable option compared to IEFA [10].