BGLD vs VYM
FT Vest Gold Strategy Quarterly Buffer 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 | BGLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.91% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $51M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -1.34% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +11.43% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.91% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.86% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 20, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BGLD vs VYM Performance
FT Vest Gold Strategy Quarterly Buffer ETF (BGLD) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BGLD returned +11.43% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, BGLD is down 1.34% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, BGLD compounded at +19.91% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.86% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, BGLD has the edge at +9.77% annualized vs +7.09%. 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 10.1% for BGLD. 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 -16.2% for BGLD 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 0.23. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BGLD charges 0.91% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $91 vs $4 annually, a gap of $87 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BGLD currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BGLD or VYM?
BGLD has an expense ratio of 0.91% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $87 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BGLD or VYM?
Over the past year BGLD returned +11.43% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), BGLD annualized +9.77% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BGLD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 10.1% for BGLD. Worst drawdown: BGLD -16.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BGLD and VYM?
BGLD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.23, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BGLD or VYM?
BGLD yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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