FHLC vs VXUS
Fidelity MSCI Health Care Index ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. FHLC delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FHLC | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $3.3B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.29% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 341 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.24% | +13.56% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.69% | +24.30% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.97% | +20.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.79% | +9.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 21, 2013 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FHLC vs VXUS Performance
Fidelity MSCI Health Care Index ETF (FHLC) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FHLC returned +28.69% while VXUS returned +24.30%. Year to date, FHLC is up 11.24% versus a gain of 13.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, FHLC compounded at +10.97% per year against +20.24% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +5.79% and +9.37% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, FHLC has the edge at +10.35% annualized vs +4.79%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 14.4% for FHLC. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -29.2% for FHLC and -39.9% for VXUS. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FHLC charges 0.08% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $5 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FHLC currently yields 1.29% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
FHLC and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8180 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FHLC or VXUS?
FHLC has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FHLC or VXUS?
Over the past year FHLC returned +28.69% vs +24.30% for VXUS, so FHLC leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FHLC annualized +10.35% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FHLC or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.4% for FHLC. Worst drawdown: FHLC -29.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FHLC and VXUS?
FHLC and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FHLC and VXUS?
FHLC and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8180 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FHLC or VXUS?
FHLC yields 1.29% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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