CBON vs VYM
VanEck China Bond 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CBON | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $26M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.52% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 39 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +5.75% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +9.48% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.73% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.07% | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -15.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | VanEck | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 10, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CBON vs VYM Performance
VanEck China Bond ETF (CBON) is a ETF from VanEck and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CBON returned +9.48% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, CBON is up 5.75% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, CBON compounded at +5.73% per year against +18.60% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.07% and +12.30% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.11% annualized vs +0.70%. 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 5.3% for CBON. 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 -15.5% for CBON 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 0.30. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CBON charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CBON currently yields 1.52% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CBON and VYM share 0 holdings out of 604 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, CBON or VYM?
CBON has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CBON or VYM?
Over the past year CBON returned +9.48% vs +24.43% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), CBON annualized +0.70% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CBON or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.3% for CBON. Worst drawdown: CBON -15.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CBON and VYM?
CBON and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.30, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CBON and VYM?
CBON and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CBON or VYM?
CBON yields 1.52% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.