HGLB vs IVV
Highland Global Allocation Fund vs iShares Core S&P 500 ETF
Quick Verdict
IVV has a lower expense ratio. IVV delivered stronger 1-year returns. IVV offers more diversification with 505 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HGLB | IVV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.67% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $279M | $865.2B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.52% | 1.09% | |
| Holdings | 69 | 508 | |
| YTD Return | -8.75% | +14.50% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.74% | +22.02% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.29% | +21.80% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.33% | +13.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 31.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -74.1% | -56.5% | |
| Fund Family | NexPoint | iShares by BlackRock (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 1998 | May 15, 2000 |
HGLB vs IVV Performance
Highland Global Allocation Fund (HGLB) is a ETF from NexPoint and iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US). Over the past year HGLB returned +0.74% while IVV returned +22.02%. Year to date, HGLB is down 8.75% versus a gain of 14.50% for IVV.
Over three years, HGLB compounded at +9.29% per year against +21.80% for IVV; over five years the annualized figures are +6.33% and +13.37% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, IVV has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -0.81%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HGLB has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 31.6% compared with 15.1% for IVV. 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 -74.1% for HGLB and -56.5% for IVV. 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HGLB charges 2.67% per year while IVV charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $267 vs $3 annually, a gap of $264 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HGLB currently yields 8.52% against 1.09% for IVV.
Holdings Overlap
HGLB and IVV share 10 holdings out of 547 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HGLB or IVV?
HGLB has an expense ratio of 2.67% while IVV charges 0.03%. IVV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $264 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HGLB or IVV?
Over the past year HGLB returned +0.74% vs +22.02% for IVV, so IVV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), HGLB annualized -0.81% vs +7.07% for IVV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HGLB or IVV?
HGLB has been the more volatile fund at 31.6% annualized versus 15.1% for IVV. Worst drawdown: HGLB -74.1% vs IVV -56.5%.
Should I hold both HGLB and IVV?
HGLB and IVV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HGLB and IVV?
HGLB and IVV share 10 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 547 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HGLB or IVV?
HGLB yields 8.52% while IVV yields 1.09%, so HGLB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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