HCMT vs VXUS
Direxion HCM Tactical Enhanced US 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HCMT | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.18% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $625M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.62% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 509 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.53% | +14.26% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.96% | +25.40% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.94% | +20.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.76% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 22, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HCMT vs VXUS Performance
Direxion HCM Tactical Enhanced US ETF (HCMT) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HCMT returned +20.96% while VXUS returned +25.40%. Year to date, HCMT is up 7.53% versus a gain of 14.26% for VXUS.
Over three years, HCMT compounded at +19.94% per year against +20.47% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, HCMT has the edge at +18.22% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HCMT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.7% 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 -36.3% for HCMT 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 0.49. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HCMT charges 1.18% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $118 vs $5 annually, a gap of $113 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HCMT currently yields 0.62% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HCMT and VXUS share 9 holdings out of 8365 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, HCMT or VXUS?
HCMT has an expense ratio of 1.18% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $113 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HCMT or VXUS?
Over the past year HCMT returned +20.96% vs +25.40% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), HCMT annualized +18.22% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HCMT or VXUS?
HCMT has been the more volatile fund at 24.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HCMT -36.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HCMT and VXUS?
HCMT and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.49, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HCMT and VXUS?
HCMT and VXUS share 9 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8365 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HCMT or VXUS?
HCMT yields 0.62% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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