HDV vs VXUS
iShares Core High Dividend ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. HDV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HDV | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $15.0B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.07% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 81 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +24.33% | +14.56% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.26% | +25.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.59% | +20.38% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.93% | +9.32% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.0% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 29, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HDV vs VXUS Performance
iShares Core High Dividend ETF (HDV) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDV returned +26.26% while VXUS returned +25.24%. Year to date, HDV is up 24.33% versus a gain of 14.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, HDV compounded at +17.59% per year against +20.38% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +12.93% and +9.32% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, HDV has the edge at +8.66% annualized vs +4.84%. 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 13.1% for HDV. 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 -37.0% for HDV 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDV charges 0.08% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $5 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDV currently yields 3.07% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HDV and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7944 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HDV | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM | 0.13% | 0.02% | 0.11% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HDV or VXUS?
HDV has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDV or VXUS?
Over the past year HDV returned +26.26% vs +25.24% for VXUS, so HDV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), HDV annualized +8.66% vs +4.84% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDV or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.1% for HDV. Worst drawdown: HDV -37.0% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HDV and VXUS?
HDV and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDV and VXUS?
HDV and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7944 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDV or VXUS?
HDV yields 3.07% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so HDV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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