EMIF vs VYM
iShares Emerging Markets Infrastructure 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 | EMIF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $13M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.22% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 47 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -2.52% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.75% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.07% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.03% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -54.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 16, 2009 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EMIF vs VYM Performance
iShares Emerging Markets Infrastructure ETF (EMIF) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMIF returned +8.75% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, EMIF is down 2.52% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, EMIF compounded at +11.07% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +5.03% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs +1.41%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMIF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.2% 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 -54.6% for EMIF 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMIF charges 0.60% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $4 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMIF currently yields 4.22% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EMIF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 588 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, EMIF or VYM?
EMIF has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMIF or VYM?
Over the past year EMIF returned +8.75% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), EMIF annualized +1.41% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMIF or VYM?
EMIF has been the more volatile fund at 18.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EMIF -54.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EMIF and VYM?
EMIF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMIF and VYM?
EMIF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 588 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMIF or VYM?
EMIF yields 4.22% while VYM yields 2.86%, so EMIF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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