LVHI vs VXUS
Franklin International Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF vs Vanguard Total International Stock ETF
Quick Verdict
VXUS has a lower expense ratio. LVHI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VXUS offers more diversification with 7861 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LVHI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.40% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $5.4B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.73% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 450 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +15.16% | +15.00% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.17% | +26.87% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.63% | +19.79% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +15.98% | +9.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.0% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 27, 2016 | Jan 26, 2011 |
LVHI vs VXUS Performance
Franklin International Low Volatility High Dividend Index ETF (LVHI) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LVHI returned +29.17% while VXUS returned +26.87%. Year to date, LVHI is up 15.16% versus a gain of 15.00% for VXUS.
Over three years, LVHI compounded at +22.63% per year against +19.79% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +15.98% and +9.26% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, LVHI has the edge at +11.50% annualized vs +4.88%. 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 11.0% for LVHI. 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 -32.3% for LVHI 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LVHI 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, LVHI currently yields 3.73% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
LVHI and VXUS share 142 holdings out of 7912 unique holdings combined, representing a 11.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LVHI or VXUS?
LVHI 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, LVHI or VXUS?
Over the past year LVHI returned +29.17% vs +26.87% for VXUS, so LVHI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), LVHI annualized +11.50% vs +4.88% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LVHI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 11.0% for LVHI. Worst drawdown: LVHI -32.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both LVHI and VXUS?
LVHI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LVHI and VXUS?
LVHI and VXUS share 142 common holdings with a 11.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 7912 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LVHI or VXUS?
LVHI yields 3.73% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so LVHI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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