HARD vs VXUS
Simplify Commodities Strategy No K-1 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 | HARD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.78% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $82M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.15% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 96 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.90% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.99% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.40% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 27, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HARD vs VXUS Performance
Simplify Commodities Strategy No K-1 ETF (HARD) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HARD returned +5.99% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, HARD is up 2.90% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, HARD compounded at +8.40% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, HARD has the edge at +8.72% annualized vs +4.86%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HARD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -21.0% for HARD 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 -0.03. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HARD charges 0.78% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $78 vs $5 annually, a gap of $73 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HARD currently yields 3.15% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HARD and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7862 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, HARD or VXUS?
HARD has an expense ratio of 0.78% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $73 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HARD or VXUS?
Over the past year HARD returned +5.99% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), HARD annualized +8.72% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HARD or VXUS?
HARD has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HARD -21.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HARD and VXUS?
HARD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.03, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HARD and VXUS?
HARD and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7862 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HARD or VXUS?
HARD yields 3.15% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HARD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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