The Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF (HDEF) seeks to replicate the performance of the MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Index, offering investors exposure to high-dividend-yielding equities in developed markets outside of the US and Canada. With $2.26 billion in assets under management and a low expense ratio of 0.09%, HDEF provides a cost-effective way to access a diversified portfolio of international dividend stocks. The fund's focus on high-dividend stocks differentiates it, potentially appealing to income-seeking investors.
The Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF (HDEF) seeks to replicate the performance of the MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Index, offering investors exposure to high-dividend-yielding equities in developed markets outside of the US and Canada. With $2.26 billion in assets under management and a low expense ratio of 0.09%, HDEF provides a cost-effective way to access a diversified portfolio of international dividend stocks. The fund's focus on high-dividend stocks differentiates it, potentially appealing to income-seeking investors.
ETF Overview
Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF (the “Fund”) seeks investment results that correspond generally to the performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Index (the “Underlying Index”).
HDEF aims to mirror the MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Index, targeting developed-market equities (excluding the US and Canada) with above-average dividend yields. This ETF is designed for investors seeking income from international equities. The fund's holdings include a mix of well-established international companies. The top holdings include Roche Holding AG (5.75%), Novartis AG Registered Shares (5.62%), and Shell PLC (4.77%). Sector allocation leans heavily towards Financial Services (26.1%), Consumer Defensive (19.1%), and Healthcare (15.0%). This concentration reflects the dividend-paying characteristics of companies within these sectors. HDEF provides a focused approach to international dividend investing, potentially making it suitable for investors who want targeted exposure to this specific market segment. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk Metrics
HDEF, while diversified across 124 holdings, exhibits concentration risk due to its top holdings constituting a significant portion of the portfolio. Roche Holding AG and Novartis AG Registered Shares alone account for over 11% of the fund. Sector concentration is also a factor, with Financial Services, Consumer Defensive, and Healthcare representing over 60% of the fund's allocation. This makes HDEF susceptible to sector-specific downturns. With a beta of 0.90, HDEF demonstrates slightly lower volatility compared to the broader market. The fund's expense ratio of 0.09% is relatively low, minimizing expense drag on returns. these may be worth researching concentration and sector risks when evaluating HDEF. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
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Risk Metrics
Beta: 0.90
Questions & Answers
What is HDEF and what does it track?
HDEF, or the Xtrackers MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Equity ETF, is an exchange-traded fund that aims to replicate the performance of the MSCI EAFE High Dividend Yield Index. This index focuses on identifying and selecting equity securities from developed markets, excluding the United States and Canada, that exhibit higher-than-average dividend yields. By tracking this index, HDEF provides investors with a convenient way to access a diversified portfolio of international stocks known for their dividend payouts. The fund's objective is to deliver investment results that closely correspond to the index's performance before accounting for fees and expenses.
What is the expense ratio for HDEF?
The expense ratio for HDEF is 0.09%. This means that for every $10,000 invested in the fund, $9 is used to cover the fund's operating expenses annually. This expense ratio is relatively low compared to the category average for equity ETFs, which is approximately 0.44%. HDEF's lower expense ratio can be an advantage for investors, as it reduces the cost of investing and potentially improves overall returns over the long term.
What are the top holdings in HDEF?
The top holdings in HDEF include several prominent international companies. As of 2026-03-15, the top three holdings are Roche Holding AG (5.75%), Novartis AG Registered Shares (5.62%), and Shell PLC (4.77%). Other significant holdings include Nestle SA (4.66%) and Allianz SE (4.20%). These companies represent a significant portion of the fund's assets and reflect its focus on established, dividend-paying businesses in developed markets outside of the US and Canada.
Is HDEF a good long-term investment?
Whether HDEF is a suitable long-term investment depends on an individual investor's specific financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. HDEF offers exposure to high-dividend-yielding equities in developed international markets, which can provide diversification benefits and income potential. The fund's low expense ratio of 0.09% can also contribute to long-term returns. However, the may be worth researching fund's concentration in certain sectors and countries, as well as its beta of 0.90, when evaluating its suitability for their portfolio. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
How does HDEF compare to similar ETFs?
HDEF distinguishes itself through its focus on high-dividend-yielding equities within the MSCI EAFE region. Its expense ratio of 0.09% is competitive compared to other international dividend ETFs. The fund's AUM of $2.26 billion indicates substantial investor interest and liquidity. Other similar ETFs may have different index methodologies, sector allocations, or country exposures, which can impact performance. Investors should compare these factors to determine which ETF best aligns with their investment objectives. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Does HDEF pay dividends?
While the provided data indicates a 0.00% dividend yield, this may not be entirely accurate or current. HDEF is designed to invest in high-dividend-yielding stocks, and it is likely that the fund distributes dividends to its shareholders. Investors should consult the fund's official website or fact sheet for the most up-to-date dividend yield information and distribution schedule. Keep in mind that dividend yields can fluctuate based on market conditions and the dividend policies of the underlying holdings.