AOD vs VYM
Abrdn Total Dynamic Dividend Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. AOD delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AOD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.16% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.0B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.73% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 86 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +18.92% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.46% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.55% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.11% | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.9% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 26, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AOD vs VYM Performance
Abrdn Total Dynamic Dividend Fund (AOD) is a ETF from Aberdeen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AOD returned +32.46% while VYM returned +21.39%. Year to date, AOD is up 18.92% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Over three years, AOD compounded at +23.55% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.11% and +11.98% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.00% annualized vs -4.00%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AOD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.9% compared with 14.5% 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 -88.1% for AOD 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
AOD charges 1.16% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $116 vs $4 annually, a gap of $112 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AOD currently yields 11.73% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
AOD and VYM share 37 holdings out of 653 unique holdings combined, representing a 21.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AOD or VYM?
AOD has an expense ratio of 1.16% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $112 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AOD or VYM?
Over the past year AOD returned +32.46% vs +21.39% for VYM, so AOD leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), AOD annualized -4.00% vs +7.00% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AOD or VYM?
AOD has been the more volatile fund at 21.9% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AOD -88.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AOD and VYM?
AOD 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 AOD and VYM?
AOD and VYM share 37 common holdings with a 21.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 653 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AOD or VYM?
AOD yields 11.73% while VYM yields 2.24%, so AOD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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