HLGE vs VXUS
Hartford Longevity Economy ETF 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HLGE | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.44% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $13M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.34% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 342 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.20% | +13.56% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.26% | +24.30% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.26% | +20.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.9% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 16, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HLGE vs VXUS Performance
Hartford Longevity Economy ETF (HLGE) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HLGE returned +5.26% while VXUS returned +24.30%. Year to date, HLGE is up 2.20% versus a gain of 13.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, HLGE compounded at +12.26% per year against +20.24% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, HLGE has the edge at +7.02% annualized vs +4.79%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HLGE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -23.9% for HLGE 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HLGE charges 0.44% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $44 vs $5 annually, a gap of $39 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HLGE currently yields 1.34% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HLGE or VXUS?
HLGE has an expense ratio of 0.44% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $39 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HLGE or VXUS?
Over the past year HLGE returned +5.26% vs +24.30% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), HLGE annualized +7.02% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HLGE or VXUS?
HLGE has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HLGE -23.9% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HLGE and VXUS?
HLGE and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, HLGE or VXUS?
HLGE yields 1.34% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS 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.