HSCZ vs VTI
HSCZ vs VTI
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI EAFE Small-Cap ETF vs Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Quick Verdict
VTI has a lower expense ratio. VTI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTI offers more diversification with 2783 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HSCZ | VTI | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $241M | $663.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.95% | 1.07% | |
| Holdings | 2,184 | 3,543 | |
| YTD Return | +12.32% | +13.92% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.86% | +24.07% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.84% | +20.88% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.08% | +12.47% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.1% | -56.6% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 29, 2015 | May 24, 2001 |
HSCZ vs VTI Performance
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI EAFE Small-Cap ETF (HSCZ) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HSCZ returned +23.86% while VTI returned +24.07%. Year to date, HSCZ is up 12.32% versus a gain of 13.92% for VTI.
Over three years, HSCZ compounded at +18.84% per year against +20.88% for VTI; over five years the annualized figures are +11.08% and +12.47% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, HSCZ has the edge at +8.75% annualized vs +8.13%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VTI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 13.8% for HSCZ. 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 -37.1% for HSCZ and -56.6% for VTI. 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HSCZ charges 0.43% per year while VTI charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $3 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HSCZ currently yields 2.95% against 1.07% for VTI.
Holdings Overlap
HSCZ and VTI share 3 holdings out of 4444 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, HSCZ or VTI?
HSCZ has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VTI charges 0.03%. VTI is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HSCZ or VTI?
Over the past year HSCZ returned +23.86% vs +24.07% for VTI, so VTI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HSCZ annualized +8.75% vs +8.13% for VTI. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HSCZ or VTI?
VTI has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 13.8% for HSCZ. Worst drawdown: HSCZ -37.1% vs VTI -56.6%.
Should I hold both HSCZ and VTI?
HSCZ and VTI have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HSCZ and VTI?
HSCZ and VTI share 3 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 4444 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HSCZ or VTI?
HSCZ yields 2.95% while VTI yields 1.07%, so HSCZ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.