AGEM vs VYM
abrdn Emerging Markets Dividend Active ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. AGEM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AGEM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $336M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.89% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 100 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +24.27% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +41.37% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +41.03% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +41.03% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 4, 1993 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AGEM vs VYM Performance
abrdn Emerging Markets Dividend Active ETF (AGEM) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AGEM returned +41.37% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, AGEM is up 24.27% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, AGEM compounded at +41.03% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +41.03% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +5.70%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AGEM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.6% 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 -33.5% for AGEM 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
AGEM charges 0.70% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $4 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AGEM currently yields 1.89% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AGEM or VYM?
AGEM has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AGEM or VYM?
Over the past year AGEM returned +41.37% vs +25.03% for VYM, so AGEM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), AGEM annualized +5.70% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AGEM or VYM?
AGEM has been the more volatile fund at 23.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AGEM -33.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AGEM and VYM?
AGEM 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 AGEM and VYM?
AGEM and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 645 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AGEM or VYM?
AGEM yields 1.89% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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