BCV vs VYM
BCV vs VYM
Bancroft Fund Ltd vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. BCV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BCV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.11% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $177M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.46% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 86 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +13.84% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.19% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.62% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.25% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gabelli Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Convertible | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 4, 1971 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BCV vs VYM Performance
Bancroft Fund Ltd (BCV) is a ETF from Gabelli Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BCV returned +28.19% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, BCV is up 13.84% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, BCV compounded at +19.62% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.25% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +2.63%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BCV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.6% 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 -99.4% for BCV 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BCV charges 1.11% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $111 vs $4 annually, a gap of $107 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BCV currently yields 3.46% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BCV and VYM share 3 holdings out of 586 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BCV or VYM?
BCV has an expense ratio of 1.11% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $107 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BCV or VYM?
Over the past year BCV returned +28.19% vs +26.12% for VYM, so BCV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), BCV annualized +2.63% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BCV or VYM?
BCV has been the more volatile fund at 16.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: BCV -99.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BCV and VYM?
BCV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BCV and VYM?
BCV and VYM share 3 common holdings with a 1.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 586 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BCV or VYM?
BCV yields 3.46% while VYM yields 2.86%, so BCV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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