HBTA vs VXUS
Horizon Expedition Plus 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 | HBTA | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.86% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $226M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 209 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +5.55% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.60% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Horizon Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 22, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HBTA vs VXUS Performance
Horizon Expedition Plus ETF (HBTA) is a ETF from Horizon Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HBTA returned +21.60% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, HBTA is up 5.55% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HBTA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.4% 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 -23.8% for HBTA 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HBTA charges 0.86% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $86 vs $5 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HBTA currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HBTA and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 8057 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HBTA or VXUS?
HBTA has an expense ratio of 0.86% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HBTA or VXUS?
Over the past year HBTA returned +21.60% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), HBTA annualized +0.14% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HBTA or VXUS?
HBTA has been the more volatile fund at 19.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HBTA -23.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HBTA and VXUS?
HBTA and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HBTA and VXUS?
HBTA and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8057 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HBTA or VXUS?
HBTA yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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