HFXI vs IG
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF vs Principal Investment Grade Corporate ETF
Quick Verdict
IG has a lower expense ratio. HFXI delivered stronger 1-year returns. HFXI offers more diversification with 759 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HFXI | IG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.19% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $198M | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.96% | 5.07% | |
| Holdings | 858 | 248 | |
| YTD Return | +17.72% | -1.76% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.13% | +0.69% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.98% | +4.77% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.28% | -0.76% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.9% | 8.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.2% | -23.8% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Principal Funds | |
| Category | Equity | Fixed Income | |
| Inception | Jul 22, 2015 | Apr 18, 2018 |
HFXI vs IG Performance
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF (HFXI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Principal Investment Grade Corporate ETF (IG) is a ETF from Principal Funds. Over the past year HFXI returned +31.13% while IG returned +0.69%. Year to date, HFXI is up 17.72% versus a loss of 1.76% for IG.
Over three years, HFXI compounded at +20.98% per year against +4.77% for IG; over five years the annualized figures are +12.28% and -0.76% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, HFXI has the edge at +7.98% annualized vs +0.56%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HFXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 13.9% compared with 8.0% for IG. 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 -34.2% for HFXI and -23.8% for IG. 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HFXI charges 0.20% per year while IG charges 0.19%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $19 annually, a gap of $1 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HFXI currently yields 3.96% against 5.07% for IG.
Holdings Overlap
HFXI and IG share 0 holdings out of 904 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, HFXI or IG?
HFXI has an expense ratio of 0.20% while IG charges 0.19%. IG is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $1 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HFXI or IG?
Over the past year HFXI returned +31.13% vs +0.69% for IG, so HFXI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), HFXI annualized +7.98% vs +0.56% for IG. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HFXI or IG?
HFXI has been the more volatile fund at 13.9% annualized versus 8.0% for IG. Worst drawdown: HFXI -34.2% vs IG -23.8%.
Should I hold both HFXI and IG?
HFXI and IG have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HFXI and IG?
HFXI and IG share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 904 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HFXI or IG?
HFXI yields 3.96% while IG yields 5.07%, so IG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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