BUFE vs VYM
FT Vest Laddered Emerging Markets Buffer ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BUFE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.05% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +6.12% | +14.95% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +21.14% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 7, 2026 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BUFE vs VYM Performance
FT Vest Laddered Emerging Markets Buffer ETF (BUFE) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, BUFE is up 6.12% versus a gain of 14.95% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -5.6% for BUFE and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BUFE charges 1.05% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $105 vs $4 annually, a gap of $101 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BUFE currently yields 0.00% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BUFE and VYM share 0 holdings out of 607 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, BUFE or VYM?
BUFE has an expense ratio of 1.05% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $101 per year of difference.
What is the holdings overlap between BUFE and VYM?
BUFE and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BUFE or VYM?
BUFE yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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