HGER vs VXUS
Harbor Commodity All Weather Strategy ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. HGER delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HGER | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.68% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $3.8B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.01% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 21 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +32.24% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +43.30% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.49% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 9, 2022 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HGER vs VXUS Performance
Harbor Commodity All Weather Strategy ETF (HGER) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HGER returned +43.30% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, HGER is up 32.24% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, HGER compounded at +19.49% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 5-year window we track, HGER has the edge at +15.79% annualized vs +4.86%. 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 13.2% for HGER. 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 -23.3% for HGER 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 0.31. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HGER charges 0.68% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $68 vs $5 annually, a gap of $63 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HGER currently yields 6.01% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HGER or VXUS?
HGER has an expense ratio of 0.68% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $63 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HGER or VXUS?
Over the past year HGER returned +43.30% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so HGER leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), HGER annualized +15.79% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HGER or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.2% for HGER. Worst drawdown: HGER -23.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HGER and VXUS?
HGER and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.31, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, HGER or VXUS?
HGER yields 6.01% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HGER currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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