BALT vs VYM
Innovator Defined Wealth Shield 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 | BALT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.8B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.40% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.97% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.36% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.11% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 30, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BALT vs VYM Performance
Innovator Defined Wealth Shield ETF (BALT) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BALT returned +6.97% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, BALT is up 3.40% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, BALT compounded at +7.36% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.11% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +6.03%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 2.6% for BALT. 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 -4.9% for BALT 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BALT charges 0.69% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $4 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BALT currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BALT or VYM?
BALT has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BALT or VYM?
Over the past year BALT returned +6.97% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), BALT annualized +6.03% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BALT or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.6% for BALT. Worst drawdown: BALT -4.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BALT and VYM?
BALT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BALT or VYM?
BALT yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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