HYFI vs VXUS
AB High Yield 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 | HYFI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.40% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $333M | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.67% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 666 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +2.37% | +13.56% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.74% | +24.30% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.14% | +20.24% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.37% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.5% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -6.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | AllianceBernstein L.P. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 15, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HYFI vs VXUS Performance
AB High Yield ETF (HYFI) is a ETF from AllianceBernstein L.P. and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HYFI returned +5.74% while VXUS returned +24.30%. Year to date, HYFI is up 2.37% versus a gain of 13.56% for VXUS.
Over three years, HYFI compounded at +9.14% per year against +20.24% for VXUS. Across the full 3-year window we track, HYFI has the edge at +8.68% annualized vs +4.79%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 4.5% for HYFI. 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 -6.3% for HYFI 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HYFI charges 0.40% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $40 vs $5 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HYFI currently yields 6.67% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HYFI and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8318 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, HYFI or VXUS?
HYFI has an expense ratio of 0.40% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HYFI or VXUS?
Over the past year HYFI returned +5.74% vs +24.30% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), HYFI annualized +8.68% vs +4.79% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HYFI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 4.5% for HYFI. Worst drawdown: HYFI -6.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HYFI and VXUS?
HYFI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HYFI and VXUS?
HYFI and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8318 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HYFI or VXUS?
HYFI yields 6.67% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so HYFI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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