ARKG vs VYM
ARK Genomic Revolution ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. ARKG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ARKG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 33 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +52.67% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +90.55% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.88% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -11.71% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 36.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -83.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Ark Invest | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 31, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ARKG vs VYM Performance
ARK Genomic Revolution ETF (ARKG) is a ETF from Ark Invest and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ARKG returned +90.55% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, ARKG is up 52.67% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, ARKG compounded at +11.88% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -11.71% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, ARKG has the edge at +7.96% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ARKG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 36.4% 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 -83.6% for ARKG 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 0.51. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ARKG charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ARKG currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
ARKG and VYM share 0 holdings out of 589 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ARKG or VYM?
ARKG has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ARKG or VYM?
Over the past year ARKG returned +90.55% vs +26.05% for VYM, so ARKG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), ARKG annualized +7.96% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ARKG or VYM?
ARKG has been the more volatile fund at 36.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ARKG -83.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ARKG and VYM?
ARKG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.51, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ARKG and VYM?
ARKG and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 589 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ARKG or VYM?
ARKG yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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