PHEQ vs VXUS
PHEQ vs VXUS
Parametric Hedged Equity 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 | PHEQ | VXUS | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $137M | $156.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.94% | 2.60% | |
| Holdings | 186 | 8,747 | |
| YTD Return | +6.93% | +13.65% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.44% | +28.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +9.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.8% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.6% | -39.9% | |
| Fund Family | Parametric | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 16, 2023 | Jan 26, 2011 |
PHEQ vs VXUS Performance
Parametric Hedged Equity ETF (PHEQ) is a ETF from Parametric and Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PHEQ returned +13.44% while VXUS returned +28.53%. Year to date, PHEQ is up 6.93% versus a gain of 13.65% for VXUS.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VXUS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% compared with 6.8% for PHEQ. 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 -12.6% for PHEQ 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PHEQ charges 0.29% per year while VXUS charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $5 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PHEQ currently yields 0.94% against 2.60% for VXUS.
Holdings Overlap
PHEQ and VXUS share 3 holdings out of 8030 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PHEQ or VXUS?
PHEQ has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VXUS charges 0.05%. VXUS is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PHEQ or VXUS?
Over the past year PHEQ returned +13.44% vs +28.53% for VXUS, so VXUS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), PHEQ annualized +15.00% vs +4.81% for VXUS. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PHEQ or VXUS?
VXUS has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 6.8% for PHEQ. Worst drawdown: PHEQ -12.6% vs VXUS -39.9%.
Should I hold both PHEQ and VXUS?
PHEQ and VXUS have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PHEQ and VXUS?
PHEQ and VXUS share 3 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 8030 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PHEQ or VXUS?
PHEQ yields 0.94% while VXUS yields 2.60%, so VXUS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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