HGLB vs VXUS
Highland Global Allocation Fund vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. VXUS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HGLB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.67% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $279M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.52% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 69 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -9.23% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.26% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.80% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.72% | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 31.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -74.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | NexPoint | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 5, 1998 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HGLB vs VXUS Performance
Highland Global Allocation Fund (HGLB) is a ETF from NexPoint and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HGLB returned +2.26% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, HGLB is down 9.23% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, HGLB compounded at +8.80% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +6.72% and +9.28% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.86% annualized vs -0.88%. 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 VXUS. 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 -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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HGLB charges 2.67% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $267 vs $5 annually, a gap of $262 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HGLB currently yields 8.52% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HGLB and VXUS share 4 holdings out of 7909 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HGLB | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARGENT 3.5 07/09/41 | 2.44% | 0.00% | 2.44% |
| JHX:AU | 1.37% | 0.03% | 1.34% |
| AMRZ:SM | 0.36% | 0.07% | 0.29% |
| UDCD:QA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HGLB or VXUS?
HGLB has an expense ratio of 2.67% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $262 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HGLB or VXUS?
Over the past year HGLB returned +2.26% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), HGLB annualized -0.88% vs +4.86% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HGLB or VXUS?
HGLB has been the more volatile fund at 31.6% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HGLB -74.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HGLB and VXUS?
HGLB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HGLB and VXUS?
HGLB and VXUS share 4 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7909 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HGLB or VXUS?
HGLB yields 8.52% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HGLB 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.