HWSM vs VXUS
Hotchkis & Wiley SMID Cap Diversified Value Fund ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. HWSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HWSM | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.55% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $3M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.18% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 166 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +16.54% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.10% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -15.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Hotchkis & Wiley Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2025 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HWSM vs VXUS Performance
Hotchkis & Wiley SMID Cap Diversified Value Fund ETF (HWSM) is a ETF from Hotchkis & Wiley Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HWSM returned +28.10% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, HWSM is up 16.54% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 12.0% for HWSM. 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 -15.7% for HWSM 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HWSM charges 0.55% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $55 vs $5 annually, a gap of $50 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HWSM currently yields 1.18% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HWSM and VXUS share 2 holdings out of 8024 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HWSM or VXUS?
HWSM has an expense ratio of 0.55% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $50 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HWSM or VXUS?
Over the past year HWSM returned +28.10% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so HWSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), HWSM annualized +22.16% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HWSM or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.0% for HWSM. Worst drawdown: HWSM -15.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HWSM and VXUS?
HWSM and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HWSM and VXUS?
HWSM and VXUS share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8024 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HWSM or VXUS?
HWSM yields 1.18% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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