HEEM vs VTI
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Emerging Markets ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. HEEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HEEM | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.72% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $276M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.75% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 1,327 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +18.68% | +14.96% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.02% | +22.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.24% | +21.51% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.50% | +12.36% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.2% | 15.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.5% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 23, 2014 | May 24, 2001 |
HEEM vs VTI Performance
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (HEEM) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HEEM returned +34.02% while VTI returned +22.39%. Year to date, HEEM is up 18.68% versus a gain of 14.96% for VTI.
Over three years, HEEM compounded at +22.24% per year against +21.51% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +9.50% and +12.36% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.16% annualized vs +7.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% compared with 14.2% for HEEM. 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 -33.5% for HEEM 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
HEEM charges 0.72% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $72 vs $3 annually, a gap of $69 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HEEM currently yields 1.75% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
HEEM and VTI share 0 holdings out of 2812 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, HEEM or VTI?
HEEM has an expense ratio of 0.72% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $69 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HEEM or VTI?
Over the past year HEEM returned +34.02% vs +22.39% for VTI, so HEEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), HEEM annualized +7.80% vs +8.16% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HEEM or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.2% for HEEM. Worst drawdown: HEEM -33.5% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HEEM and VTI?
HEEM 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 HEEM and VTI?
HEEM and VTI share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2812 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HEEM or VTI?
HEEM yields 1.75% while VTI yields 1.07%, so HEEM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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