HOLD vs VXUS
HOLD vs VXUS
Harbor Alpha Layering 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 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HOLD | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | - | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | - | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 24 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +5.12% | +14.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.71% | +27.82% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.28% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 13, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HOLD vs VXUS Performance
Harbor Alpha Layering ETF (HOLD) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HOLD returned +14.71% while VXUS returned +27.82%. Year to date, HOLD is up 5.12% versus a gain of 14.57% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HOLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.7% 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 -9.5% for HOLD 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HOLD charges 0.70% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $5 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period.
Holdings Overlap
HOLD and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 7862 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HOLD or VXUS?
HOLD has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HOLD or VXUS?
Over the past year HOLD returned +14.71% vs +27.82% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HOLD or VXUS?
HOLD has been the more volatile fund at 15.7% annualized versus 15.1% for VXUS. Worst drawdown: HOLD -9.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HOLD and VXUS?
HOLD and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HOLD and VXUS?
HOLD and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7862 unique securities.
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