SMI vs VXUS
HIP Sustainable Muni 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 | SMI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $11M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.83% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -3.75% | +14.07% | |
| 1Y Return | -4.39% | +27.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -0.50% | +19.27% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.14% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.2% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | VanEck | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Tax Preferred | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 8, 2021 | Jan 26, 2011 |
SMI vs VXUS Performance
HIP Sustainable Muni ETF (SMI) is a ETF from VanEck and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year SMI returned -4.39% while VXUS returned +27.24%. Year to date, SMI is down 3.75% versus a gain of 14.07% for VXUS.
Over three years, SMI compounded at -0.50% per year against +19.27% for VXUS. Across the full 4-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.83% annualized vs -3.15%. 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 6.6% for SMI. 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 -14.2% for SMI 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
SMI charges 0.24% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $5 annually, a gap of $19 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SMI currently yields 2.83% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SMI or VXUS?
SMI has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $19 per year of difference.
Which performed better, SMI or VXUS?
Over the past year SMI returned -4.39% vs +27.24% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), SMI annualized -3.15% vs +4.83% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, SMI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 6.6% for SMI. Worst drawdown: SMI -14.2% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both SMI and VXUS?
SMI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, SMI or VXUS?
SMI yields 2.83% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so SMI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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