HFXI vs VTI
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. HFXI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HFXI | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $2.1B | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.39% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 876 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +17.30% | +13.14% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.54% | +22.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.69% | +21.83% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.45% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.2% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 22, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
HFXI vs VTI Performance
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF (HFXI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HFXI returned +29.54% while VTI returned +22.35%. Year to date, HFXI is up 17.30% versus a gain of 13.14% for VTI.
Over three years, HFXI compounded at +21.69% per year against +21.83% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +12.45% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.09% annualized vs +7.92%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% 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 -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HFXI charges 0.20% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $3 annually, a gap of $17 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HFXI currently yields 3.39% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
HFXI and VTI share 5 holdings out of 3524 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HFXI or VTI?
HFXI has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $17 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HFXI or VTI?
Over the past year HFXI returned +29.54% vs +22.35% for VTI, so HFXI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HFXI annualized +7.92% vs +8.09% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HFXI or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 13.8% for HFXI. Worst drawdown: HFXI -34.2% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HFXI and VTI?
HFXI and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HFXI and VTI?
HFXI and VTI share 5 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 3524 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HFXI or VTI?
HFXI yields 3.39% while VTI yields 1.07%, so HFXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.