HSCZ vs VYM
HSCZ vs VYM
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI EAFE Small-Cap ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. HSCZ offers more diversification with 1664 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HSCZ | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.43% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $241M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.95% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 2,184 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +10.71% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.43% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.91% | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.81% | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -37.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 29, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HSCZ vs VYM Performance
iShares Currency Hedged MSCI EAFE Small-Cap ETF (HSCZ) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HSCZ returned +22.43% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, HSCZ is up 10.71% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Over three years, HSCZ compounded at +17.91% per year against +16.97% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +10.81% and +12.26% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, HSCZ has the edge at +8.62% annualized vs +6.96%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.9% 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 -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HSCZ charges 0.43% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $43 vs $4 annually, a gap of $39 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HSCZ currently yields 2.95% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HSCZ or VYM?
HSCZ has an expense ratio of 0.43% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $39 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HSCZ or VYM?
Over the past year HSCZ returned +22.43% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), HSCZ annualized +8.62% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HSCZ or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.9% for HSCZ. Worst drawdown: HSCZ -37.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HSCZ and VYM?
HSCZ and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HSCZ and VYM?
HSCZ and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2220 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HSCZ or VYM?
HSCZ yields 2.95% while VYM yields 2.86%, so HSCZ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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