JHI vs VXUS
JHI vs VXUS
John Hancock Investors Trust 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 | JHI | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.35% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $130M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.58% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 435 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +1.75% | +11.69% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.57% | +26.65% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.51% | +18.15% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.89% | +8.66% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.0% | 15.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.5% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | John Hancock Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 29, 1971 | Jan 26, 2011 |
JHI vs VXUS Performance
John Hancock Investors Trust (JHI) is a ETF from John Hancock Investment Management and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JHI returned +3.57% while VXUS returned +26.65%. Year to date, JHI is up 1.75% versus a gain of 11.69% for VXUS.
Over three years, JHI compounded at +9.51% per year against +18.15% for VXUS; over five years the annualized figures are +0.89% and +8.66% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VXUS has the edge at +4.69% annualized vs -0.07%. 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 13.0% for JHI. 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 -58.5% for JHI 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JHI charges 2.35% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $235 vs $5 annually, a gap of $230 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JHI currently yields 8.58% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
JHI and VXUS share 0 holdings out of 8177 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, JHI or VXUS?
JHI has an expense ratio of 2.35% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $230 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JHI or VXUS?
Over the past year JHI returned +3.57% vs +26.65% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), JHI annualized -0.07% vs +4.69% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JHI or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 13.0% for JHI. Worst drawdown: JHI -58.5% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both JHI and VXUS?
JHI and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JHI and VXUS?
JHI and VXUS share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8177 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JHI or VXUS?
JHI yields 8.58% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so JHI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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