HGLB vs VTI
Highland Global Allocation Fund vs Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 3,543 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HGLB | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.67% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $282M | $666.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.93% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 69 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | -8.63% | +12.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.23% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.17% | +21.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.97% | +12.11% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 31.6% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -74.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | NexPoint | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 1998 | May 24, 2001 |
HGLB vs VTI Performance
Highland Global Allocation Fund (HGLB) is a ETF from NexPoint and Vanguard Morningstar Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HGLB returned +1.23% while VTI returned +21.39%. Year to date, HGLB is down 8.63% versus a gain of 12.65% for VTI.
Over three years, HGLB compounded at +10.17% per year against +21.54% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +6.97% and +12.11% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VTI has the edge at +8.07% annualized vs -0.79%. 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 15.3% for VTI. 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 -56.6% 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HGLB charges 2.67% per year while VTI 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 8.93% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
HGLB and VTI share 19 holdings out of 2820 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HGLB or VTI?
HGLB has an expense ratio of 2.67% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $264 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HGLB or VTI?
Over the past year HGLB returned +1.23% vs +21.39% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), HGLB annualized -0.79% vs +8.07% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HGLB or VTI?
HGLB has been the more volatile fund at 31.6% annualized versus 15.3% for VTI. Worst drawdown: HGLB -74.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HGLB and VTI?
HGLB and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HGLB and VTI?
HGLB and VTI share 19 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2820 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HGLB or VTI?
HGLB yields 8.93% while VTI yields 1.07%, so HGLB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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