HELX vs VXUS
Franklin Genomic Advancements ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. HELX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HELX | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $29M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 65 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +14.40% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +48.95% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.94% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -5.53% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 25, 2020 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HELX vs VXUS Performance
Franklin Genomic Advancements ETF (HELX) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HELX returned +48.95% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, HELX is up 14.40% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, HELX compounded at +10.94% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are -5.53% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, HELX has the edge at +9.04% annualized vs +4.83%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HELX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 25.1% 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 -58.8% for HELX 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HELX charges 0.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $5 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HELX currently yields 0.00% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HELX and VXUS share 1 holdings out of 7864 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HELX | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AZN:LN | 2.71% | 0.71% | 2.00% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HELX or VXUS?
HELX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HELX or VXUS?
Over the past year HELX returned +48.95% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so HELX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), HELX annualized +9.04% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HELX or VXUS?
HELX has been the more volatile fund at 25.1% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HELX -58.8% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HELX and VXUS?
HELX and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HELX and VXUS?
HELX and VXUS share 1 common holdings with a 0.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7864 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HELX or VXUS?
HELX yields 0.00% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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