HFSI vs VXUS
HFSI vs VXUS
Hartford Strategic Income 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HFSI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.0B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.25% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,019 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -1.39% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.27% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.81% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 21, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HFSI vs VXUS Performance
Hartford Strategic Income ETF (HFSI) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HFSI returned +1.27% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, HFSI is down 1.39% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, HFSI compounded at +6.81% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs +1.86%. 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 6.7% for HFSI. 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 -19.3% for HFSI 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HFSI charges 0.49% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $5 annually, a gap of $44 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HFSI currently yields 5.25% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HFSI and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 8221 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 HFSI | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SHOP:CA | 0.00% | 0.33% | 0.33% |
| ARGENT 4.125 07/09/3 | 0.31% | 0.00% | 0.31% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HFSI or VXUS?
HFSI has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $44 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HFSI or VXUS?
Over the past year HFSI returned +1.27% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), HFSI annualized +1.86% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HFSI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 6.7% for HFSI. Worst drawdown: HFSI -19.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HFSI and VXUS?
HFSI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HFSI and VXUS?
HFSI and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8221 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HFSI or VXUS?
HFSI yields 5.25% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HFSI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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