HYDB vs VXUS
HYDB vs VXUS
iShares High Yield Systematic Bond 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 | HYDB | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.99% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 265 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | -2.44% | +11.69% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.19% | +26.65% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.95% | +18.15% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.61% | +8.66% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.7% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 11, 2017 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HYDB vs VXUS Performance
iShares High Yield Systematic Bond ETF (HYDB) 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 HYDB returned +0.19% while VXUS returned +26.65%. Year to date, HYDB is down 2.44% versus a gain of 11.69% for VXUS.
Over three years, HYDB compounded at +6.95% per year against +18.15% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +3.61% and +8.66% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, HYDB has the edge at +4.90% annualized vs +4.69%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% compared with 7.7% for HYDB. 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 -21.6% for HYDB 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HYDB charges 0.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $5 annually, a gap of $30 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HYDB currently yields 6.99% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HYDB and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8063 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, HYDB or VXUS?
HYDB has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $30 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HYDB or VXUS?
Over the past year HYDB returned +0.19% vs +26.65% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), HYDB annualized +4.90% vs +4.69% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HYDB or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 7.7% for HYDB. Worst drawdown: HYDB -21.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HYDB and VXUS?
HYDB and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HYDB and VXUS?
HYDB and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8063 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HYDB or VXUS?
HYDB yields 6.99% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HYDB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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