HDGE vs VXUS
AdvisorShares Ranger Equity Bear 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 | HDGE | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 3.62% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $51M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.70% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 64 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -13.31% | +15.52% | |
| 1Y Return | -9.13% | +26.73% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -10.30% | +20.35% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -8.41% | +9.40% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.9% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Advisor Shares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HDGE vs VXUS Performance
AdvisorShares Ranger Equity Bear ETF (HDGE) is a ETF from Advisor Shares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDGE returned -9.13% while VXUS returned +26.73%. Year to date, HDGE is down 13.31% versus a gain of 15.52% for VXUS.
Over three years, HDGE compounded at -10.30% per year against +20.35% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -8.41% and +9.40% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.90% annualized vs -16.16%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HDGE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.9% 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 -94.7% for HDGE 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 -0.74. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDGE charges 3.62% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $362 vs $5 annually, a gap of $357 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDGE currently yields 3.70% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HDGE and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 7928 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, HDGE or VXUS?
HDGE has an expense ratio of 3.62% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $357 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDGE or VXUS?
Over the past year HDGE returned -9.13% vs +26.73% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), HDGE annualized -16.16% vs +4.90% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDGE or VXUS?
HDGE has been the more volatile fund at 20.9% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HDGE -94.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HDGE and VXUS?
HDGE and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of -0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDGE and VXUS?
HDGE and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7928 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDGE or VXUS?
HDGE yields 3.70% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so HDGE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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