AGD vs VYM
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund 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 | AGD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $326M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.71% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 88 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +14.38% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.03% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.27% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +10.31% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AGD vs VYM Performance
Abrdn Global Dynamic Dividend Fund (AGD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AGD returned +23.03% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, AGD is up 14.38% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, AGD compounded at +22.27% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +10.31% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs -3.20%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AGD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.7% 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 -88.3% for AGD 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AGD charges 1.35% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $135 vs $4 annually, a gap of $131 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AGD currently yields 11.71% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
AGD and VYM share 37 holdings out of 607 unique holdings combined, representing a 21.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AGD or VYM?
AGD has an expense ratio of 1.35% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $131 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AGD or VYM?
Over the past year AGD returned +23.03% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), AGD annualized -3.20% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AGD or VYM?
AGD has been the more volatile fund at 23.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AGD -88.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AGD and VYM?
AGD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AGD and VYM?
AGD and VYM share 37 common holdings with a 21.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AGD or VYM?
AGD yields 11.71% while VYM yields 2.86%, so AGD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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