BBC vs VYM
Virtus LifeSci Biotech Clinical Trials ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. BBC delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BBC | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $47M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.24% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 123 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +39.56% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +154.07% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +34.90% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.34% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 35.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -76.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 16, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BBC vs VYM Performance
Virtus LifeSci Biotech Clinical Trials ETF (BBC) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BBC returned +154.07% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, BBC is up 39.56% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, BBC compounded at +34.90% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.34% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +6.51%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BBC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 35.9% 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 -76.8% for BBC 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 0.41. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BBC charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BBC currently yields 1.24% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BBC and VYM share 0 holdings out of 679 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, BBC or VYM?
BBC has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BBC or VYM?
Over the past year BBC returned +154.07% vs +26.12% for VYM, so BBC leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), BBC annualized +6.51% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BBC or VYM?
BBC has been the more volatile fund at 35.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: BBC -76.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BBC and VYM?
BBC and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.41, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BBC and VYM?
BBC and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 679 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BBC or VYM?
BBC yields 1.24% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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