HSCZ vs VXUS
HSCZ vs VXUS
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI EAFE Small-Cap 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 | HSCZ | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $241M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.95% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 2,184 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +13.00% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.32% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.07% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.14% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 29, 2015 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HSCZ vs VXUS Performance
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI EAFE Small-Cap ETF (HSCZ) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HSCZ returned +24.32% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, HSCZ is up 13.00% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, HSCZ compounded at +19.07% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +11.14% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, HSCZ has the edge at +8.81% annualized vs +4.81%. 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 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 -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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HSCZ charges 0.43% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $5 annually, a gap of $38 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HSCZ currently yields 2.95% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HSCZ and VXUS share 1107 holdings out of 8417 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HSCZ | Weight in VXUS | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6525:JP | 0.42% | 0.02% | 0.40% |
| DPLM:LN | 0.34% | 0.02% | 0.32% |
| 6963:JP | 0.30% | 0.01% | 0.29% |
| BSL:AU | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BEZ:LN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| AIR:NZ | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 5333:JP | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 6506:JP | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 3436:JP | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| 5334:JP | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings HSCZ 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, HSCZ or VXUS?
HSCZ has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $38 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HSCZ or VXUS?
Over the past year HSCZ returned +24.32% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HSCZ annualized +8.81% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HSCZ or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 13.8% for HSCZ. Worst drawdown: HSCZ -37.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HSCZ and VXUS?
HSCZ and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HSCZ and VXUS?
HSCZ and VXUS share 1107 common holdings with a 4.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8417 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HSCZ or VXUS?
HSCZ yields 2.95% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HSCZ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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