HDMV vs VXUS
First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Developed International 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 | HDMV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.80% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $17M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.99% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 163 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +11.22% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.22% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.88% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.22% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 24, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HDMV vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Developed International ETF (HDMV) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDMV returned +14.22% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, HDMV is up 11.22% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, HDMV compounded at +15.88% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.22% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.89% annualized vs +4.76%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.8% for HDMV. 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 -35.5% for HDMV 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDMV charges 0.80% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $80 vs $5 annually, a gap of $75 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDMV currently yields 3.99% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HDMV and VXUS share 90 holdings out of 7928 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HDMV or VXUS?
HDMV has an expense ratio of 0.80% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $75 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDMV or VXUS?
Over the past year HDMV returned +14.22% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), HDMV annualized +4.76% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDMV or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.8% for HDMV. Worst drawdown: HDMV -35.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HDMV and VXUS?
HDMV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDMV and VXUS?
HDMV and VXUS share 90 common holdings with a 6.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7928 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDMV or VXUS?
HDMV yields 3.99% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so HDMV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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