BKF vs VYM
iShares MSCI BIC ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. BKF offers more diversification with 669 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BKF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.72% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $75M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.63% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 712 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -7.31% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.46% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.00% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.53% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -70.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 12, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BKF vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI BIC ETF (BKF) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BKF returned +1.46% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, BKF is down 7.31% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, BKF compounded at +8.00% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -1.53% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs -1.19%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BKF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% 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 -70.4% for BKF 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BKF charges 0.72% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $72 vs $4 annually, a gap of $68 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BKF currently yields 1.63% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BKF or VYM?
BKF has an expense ratio of 0.72% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $68 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BKF or VYM?
Over the past year BKF returned +1.46% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), BKF annualized -1.19% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BKF or VYM?
BKF has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: BKF -70.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BKF and VYM?
BKF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BKF and VYM?
BKF and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1225 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BKF or VYM?
BKF yields 1.63% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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