EEA vs VYM
The European Equity Fund, Inc. vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EEA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | - | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $90M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 60 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +9.71% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.78% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.12% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.13% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -82.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | DWS ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 23, 1986 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EEA vs VYM Performance
The European Equity Fund, Inc. (EEA) is a ETF from DWS ETF Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EEA returned +15.78% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, EEA is up 9.71% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, EEA compounded at +15.12% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.13% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +1.18%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EEA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.0% 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 -82.4% for EEA 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 0.80. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Holdings Overlap
EEA and VYM share 0 holdings out of 662 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performed better, EEA or VYM?
Over the past year EEA returned +15.78% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), EEA annualized +1.18% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EEA or VYM?
EEA has been the more volatile fund at 24.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EEA -82.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EEA and VYM?
EEA and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EEA and VYM?
EEA and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 662 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EEA or VYM?
EEA yields 3.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so EEA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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