HFXI vs SOXL
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF vs Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X ETF
Quick Verdict
HFXI has a lower expense ratio. SOXL delivered stronger 1-year returns. HFXI offers more diversification with 876 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HFXI | SOXL | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.75% | |
| AUM | $2.1B | $24.3B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.39% | 0.01% | |
| Holdings | 876 | 43 | |
| YTD Return | +16.80% | +135.31% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.96% | +307.18% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.27% | +75.84% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.23% | +21.02% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 87.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.2% | -90.5% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | |
| Category | Equity | Alternative | |
| Inception | Jul 22, 2015 | Mar 11, 2010 |
HFXI vs SOXL Performance
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF (HFXI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X ETF (SOXL) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust. Over the past year HFXI returned +28.96% while SOXL returned +307.18%. Year to date, HFXI is up 16.80% versus a gain of 135.31% for SOXL.
Over three years, HFXI compounded at +21.27% per year against +75.84% for SOXL; over five years the annualized figures are +12.23% and +21.02% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, SOXL has the edge at +36.73% annualized vs +7.87%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
SOXL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 87.7% compared with 13.8% for HFXI. 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 -90.5% for SOXL. 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HFXI charges 0.20% per year while SOXL charges 0.75%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $75 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HFXI currently yields 3.39% against 0.01% for SOXL.
Holdings Overlap
HFXI and SOXL share 0 holdings out of 777 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 SOXL?
HFXI has an expense ratio of 0.20% while SOXL charges 0.75%. HFXI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HFXI or SOXL?
Over the past year HFXI returned +28.96% vs +307.18% for SOXL, so SOXL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HFXI annualized +7.87% vs +36.73% for SOXL. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HFXI or SOXL?
SOXL has been the more volatile fund at 87.7% annualized versus 13.8% for HFXI. Worst drawdown: HFXI -34.2% vs SOXL -90.5%.
Should I hold both HFXI and SOXL?
HFXI and SOXL have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HFXI and SOXL?
HFXI and SOXL share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 777 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HFXI or SOXL?
HFXI yields 3.39% while SOXL yields 0.01%, so HFXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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