IHDG vs VXUS
WisdomTree International Hedged Quality Dividend Growth 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 8,747 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IHDG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.58% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $2.2B | $158.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.80% | 2.59% | |
| Holdings | 271 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +10.83% | +15.22% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.26% | +26.86% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.12% | +20.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.65% | +9.38% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | WisdomTree Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 7, 2014 | Jan 26, 2011 |
IHDG vs VXUS Performance
WisdomTree International Hedged Quality Dividend Growth Fund (IHDG) is a ETF from WisdomTree Investments and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IHDG returned +21.26% while VXUS returned +26.86%. Year to date, IHDG is up 10.83% versus a gain of 15.22% for VXUS.
Over three years, IHDG compounded at +13.12% per year against +20.34% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +7.65% and +9.38% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, IHDG has the edge at +8.43% annualized vs +4.89%. 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 12.6% for IHDG. 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 -29.2% for IHDG 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IHDG charges 0.58% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $58 vs $5 annually, a gap of $53 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IHDG currently yields 1.80% against 2.59% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
IHDG and VXUS share 199 holdings out of 7936 unique holdings combined, representing a 11.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IHDG or VXUS?
IHDG has an expense ratio of 0.58% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $53 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IHDG or VXUS?
Over the past year IHDG returned +21.26% vs +26.86% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), IHDG annualized +8.43% vs +4.89% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IHDG or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 12.6% for IHDG. Worst drawdown: IHDG -29.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both IHDG and VXUS?
IHDG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IHDG and VXUS?
IHDG and VXUS share 199 common holdings with a 11.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7936 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IHDG or VXUS?
IHDG yields 1.80% while VXUS yields 2.59%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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