EBUF vs VYM
Innovator Emerging Markets 10 Buffer ETF - Quarterly 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 | EBUF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.89% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $41M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +9.57% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.60% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -6.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 1, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EBUF vs VYM Performance
Innovator Emerging Markets 10 Buffer ETF - Quarterly (EBUF) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EBUF returned +14.60% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, EBUF is up 9.57% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 4.5% for EBUF. 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 -6.5% for EBUF 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
EBUF charges 0.89% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $89 vs $4 annually, a gap of $85 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EBUF currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EBUF or VYM?
EBUF has an expense ratio of 0.89% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $85 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EBUF or VYM?
Over the past year EBUF returned +14.60% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), EBUF annualized +11.88% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EBUF or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 4.5% for EBUF. Worst drawdown: EBUF -6.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EBUF and VYM?
EBUF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.30, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, EBUF or VYM?
EBUF yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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