HFXI vs VYM
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. HFXI delivered stronger 1-year returns. HFXI offers more diversification with 876 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HFXI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.1B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.39% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 876 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +16.53% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.65% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.38% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.45% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 22, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HFXI vs VYM Performance
NYLI FTSE International Equity Currency Neutral ETF (HFXI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HFXI returned +28.65% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, HFXI is up 16.53% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, HFXI compounded at +21.38% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.45% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, HFXI has the edge at +7.86% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% 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 -58.8% for VYM. 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
HFXI charges 0.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $4 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HFXI currently yields 3.39% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HFXI and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1344 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 HFXI | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CFR | 0.49% | 0.04% | 0.45% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HFXI or VYM?
HFXI has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HFXI or VYM?
Over the past year HFXI returned +28.65% vs +22.16% for VYM, so HFXI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HFXI annualized +7.86% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HFXI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.8% for HFXI. Worst drawdown: HFXI -34.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HFXI and VYM?
HFXI and VYM 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 HFXI and VYM?
HFXI and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1344 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HFXI or VYM?
HFXI yields 3.39% while VYM yields 2.24%, so HFXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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