HYLS vs VXUS
HYLS vs VXUS
First Trust Tactical High Yield 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 | HYLS | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.71% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 315 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.04% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.38% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.33% | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.79% | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.1% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.1% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 25, 2013 | Jan 26, 2011 |
HYLS vs VXUS Performance
First Trust Tactical High Yield ETF (HYLS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HYLS returned +3.38% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, HYLS is up 1.04% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Over three years, HYLS compounded at +7.33% per year against +18.64% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +2.79% and +9.00% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.81% annualized vs +0.97%. 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 7.1% for HYLS. 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 -29.1% for HYLS 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 0.76. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HYLS charges 0.69% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $5 annually, a gap of $64 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HYLS currently yields 6.71% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
HYLS and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8079 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, HYLS or VXUS?
HYLS has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $64 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HYLS or VXUS?
Over the past year HYLS returned +3.38% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), HYLS annualized +0.97% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HYLS or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 7.1% for HYLS. Worst drawdown: HYLS -29.1% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both HYLS and VXUS?
HYLS and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.76, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HYLS and VXUS?
HYLS and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8079 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HYLS or VXUS?
HYLS yields 6.71% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so HYLS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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