HACK vs VXUS
Amplify Cybersecurity ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. HACK delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HACK | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $3.1B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.06% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 25 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +49.05% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +43.48% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +32.86% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.10% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -42.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Amplify ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 11, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HACK vs VXUS Performance
Amplify Cybersecurity ETF (HACK) is a ETF from Amplify ETFs and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HACK returned +43.48% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, HACK is up 49.05% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, HACK compounded at +32.86% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +14.10% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, HACK has the edge at +14.57% annualized vs +4.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HACK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.8% 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 -42.7% for HACK 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HACK charges 0.60% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $5 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HACK currently yields 0.06% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HACK and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7892 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HACK | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4704:JP | 3.56% | 0.01% | 3.55% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HACK or VXUS?
HACK has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HACK or VXUS?
Over the past year HACK returned +43.48% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so HACK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), HACK annualized +14.57% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HACK or VXUS?
HACK has been the more volatile fund at 20.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HACK -42.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HACK and VXUS?
HACK and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HACK and VXUS?
HACK and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7892 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HACK or VXUS?
HACK yields 0.06% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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