HDEF vs VTI
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HDEF | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.68% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 123 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.34% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.27% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.58% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.06% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.7% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | Xtrackers ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 12, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
HDEF vs VTI Performance
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF (HDEF) is a ETF from Xtrackers ETFs and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDEF returned +17.27% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, HDEF is up 12.34% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, HDEF compounded at +19.58% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +12.06% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs +5.50%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 14.7% for HDEF. 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 -38.2% for HDEF and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDEF charges 0.09% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $3 annually, a gap of $6 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDEF currently yields 3.68% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
HDEF and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2900 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, HDEF or VTI?
HDEF has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $6 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDEF or VTI?
Over the past year HDEF returned +17.27% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HDEF annualized +5.50% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDEF or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.7% for HDEF. Worst drawdown: HDEF -38.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HDEF and VTI?
HDEF and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDEF and VTI?
HDEF and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2900 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDEF or VTI?
HDEF yields 3.68% while VTI yields 1.07%, so HDEF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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