HEEM vs VXUS
HEEM vs VXUS
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Emerging Markets ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. HEEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HEEM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.72% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $276M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.75% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,327 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.89% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.48% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.23% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.99% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 23, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HEEM vs VXUS Performance
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (HEEM) 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 HEEM returned +34.48% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, HEEM is up 16.89% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, HEEM compounded at +21.23% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +8.99% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, HEEM has the edge at +7.67% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 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 -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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HEEM charges 0.72% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $72 vs $5 annually, a gap of $67 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HEEM currently yields 1.75% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HEEM and VXUS share 26 holdings out of 7864 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HEEM | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9988:HK | 1.92% | 0.73% | 1.19% |
| PKN:PL | 0.18% | 0.04% | 0.14% |
| 1088:HK | 0.15% | 0.04% | 0.11% |
| 1801:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2010:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 3443:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 2338:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 6690:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 1301:TW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 1336:HK | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings HEEM shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. X-ray my whole portfolio$99/yr Pro · 7-day refund | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HEEM or VXUS?
HEEM has an expense ratio of 0.72% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $67 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HEEM or VXUS?
Over the past year HEEM returned +34.48% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so HEEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), HEEM annualized +7.67% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HEEM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.2% for HEEM. Worst drawdown: HEEM -33.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HEEM and VXUS?
HEEM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HEEM and VXUS?
HEEM and VXUS share 26 common holdings with a 1.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7864 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HEEM or VXUS?
HEEM yields 1.75% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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