HDG vs VXUS
HDG vs VXUS
ProShares Hedge Replication 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 7860 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HDG | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $22M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.36% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 1,988 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +7.27% | +13.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.72% | +28.78% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.03% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.31% | +9.05% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.7% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -15.3% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 12, 2011 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HDG vs VXUS Performance
ProShares Hedge Replication ETF (HDG) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HDG returned +12.72% while VXUS returned +28.78%. Year to date, HDG is up 7.27% versus a gain of 13.57% for VXUS.
Over three years, HDG compounded at +7.03% per year against +18.63% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.31% and +9.05% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.80% annualized vs +2.79%. 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 5.7% for HDG. 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 -15.3% for HDG 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HDG charges 0.95% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $5 annually, a gap of $90 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HDG currently yields 2.36% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HDG and VXUS share 18 holdings out of 9805 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HDG | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCB:BR | 0.02% | 0.08% | 0.06% |
| FBK | 0.01% | 0.03% | 0.02% |
| SSRM | 0.03% | 0.01% | 0.02% |
| ESE | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| UUUU:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SIG:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| PPTA:CA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| IDR:MA | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CASH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| DCH | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings HDG shares with VXUS Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HDG or VXUS?
HDG has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $90 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HDG or VXUS?
Over the past year HDG returned +12.72% vs +28.78% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), HDG annualized +2.79% vs +4.80% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HDG or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 5.7% for HDG. Worst drawdown: HDG -15.3% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HDG and VXUS?
HDG and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HDG and VXUS?
HDG and VXUS share 18 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 9805 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HDG or VXUS?
HDG yields 2.36% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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