FLHK vs VXUS
Franklin FTSE Hong Kong ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FLHK | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $13M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.33% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 72 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.92% | +14.19% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.38% | +27.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -1.32% | +19.53% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.37% | +9.03% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -47.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 2, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
FLHK vs VXUS Performance
Franklin FTSE Hong Kong ETF (FLHK) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FLHK returned +20.38% while VXUS returned +27.38%. Year to date, FLHK is up 11.92% versus a gain of 14.19% for VXUS.
Over three years, FLHK compounded at -1.32% per year against +19.53% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +0.37% and +9.03% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs -0.40%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLHK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.1% compared with 15.1% for VXUS. 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 -47.0% for FLHK 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLHK charges 0.09% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $5 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLHK currently yields 4.33% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLHK or VXUS?
FLHK has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLHK or VXUS?
Over the past year FLHK returned +20.38% vs +27.38% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FLHK annualized -0.40% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLHK or VXUS?
FLHK has been the more volatile fund at 26.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: FLHK -47.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both FLHK and VXUS?
FLHK and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLHK or VXUS?
FLHK yields 4.33% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so FLHK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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