AFGR vs VYM
First Trust Active Factor Large Cap Growth ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AFGR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $91M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 76 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +7.17% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.46% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.67% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.54% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 20, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AFGR vs VYM Performance
First Trust Active Factor Large Cap Growth ETF (AFGR) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AFGR returned +9.46% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, AFGR is up 7.17% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, AFGR compounded at +20.67% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.54% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, AFGR has the edge at +11.20% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AFGR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.1% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -46.0% for AFGR and -58.8% for VYM. 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AFGR charges 0.85% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $4 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AFGR currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
AFGR and VYM share 11 holdings out of 622 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AFGR or VYM?
AFGR has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AFGR or VYM?
Over the past year AFGR returned +9.46% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), AFGR annualized +11.20% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AFGR or VYM?
AFGR has been the more volatile fund at 21.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AFGR -46.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AFGR and VYM?
AFGR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AFGR and VYM?
AFGR and VYM share 11 common holdings with a 7.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 622 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AFGR or VYM?
AFGR yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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