EFAD vs VYM
ProShares MSCI EAFE Dividend Growers 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EFAD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $62M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.64% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 78 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.08% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.07% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.33% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.84% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 19, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EFAD vs VYM Performance
ProShares MSCI EAFE Dividend Growers ETF (EFAD) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EFAD returned +8.07% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, EFAD is up 8.08% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, EFAD compounded at +8.33% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.84% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +3.13%. 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 14.2% for EFAD. 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 -35.7% for EFAD 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EFAD 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, EFAD currently yields 2.64% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EFAD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 633 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, EFAD or VYM?
EFAD 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, EFAD or VYM?
Over the past year EFAD returned +8.07% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), EFAD annualized +3.13% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EFAD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.2% for EFAD. Worst drawdown: EFAD -35.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EFAD and VYM?
EFAD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EFAD and VYM?
EFAD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 633 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EFAD or VYM?
EFAD yields 2.64% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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