SIFI vs VXUS
Harbor Ares Systematic Multi-Sector Income 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 | SIFI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $34M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.10% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 187 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.22% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.59% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.23% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.31% | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.7% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 14, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SIFI vs VXUS Performance
Harbor Ares Systematic Multi-Sector Income ETF (SIFI) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SIFI returned +4.59% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, SIFI is up 1.22% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, SIFI compounded at +7.23% per year against +19.27% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.31% and +9.14% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs +2.31%. 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 5.6% for SIFI. 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 -14.7% for SIFI 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SIFI charges 0.50% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $5 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SIFI currently yields 8.10% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
SIFI and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8012 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, SIFI or VXUS?
SIFI has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SIFI or VXUS?
Over the past year SIFI returned +4.59% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), SIFI annualized +2.31% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SIFI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.6% for SIFI. Worst drawdown: SIFI -14.7% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SIFI and VXUS?
SIFI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between SIFI and VXUS?
SIFI and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8012 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SIFI or VXUS?
SIFI yields 8.10% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SIFI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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