EMLC vs VYM
VanEck JP Morgan EM Local Currency 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMLC | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4.8B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.15% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 507 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +2.02% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.11% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.71% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.02% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -56.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | VanEck | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 22, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EMLC vs VYM Performance
VanEck JP Morgan EM Local Currency Bond ETF (EMLC) is a ETF from VanEck and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMLC returned +7.11% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, EMLC is up 2.02% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, EMLC compounded at +6.71% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.02% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs -2.35%. 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 11.1% for EMLC. 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 -56.3% for EMLC 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMLC charges 0.30% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $4 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMLC currently yields 6.15% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EMLC and VYM share 0 holdings out of 561 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, EMLC or VYM?
EMLC has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMLC or VYM?
Over the past year EMLC returned +7.11% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), EMLC annualized -2.35% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMLC or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.1% for EMLC. Worst drawdown: EMLC -56.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EMLC and VYM?
EMLC and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMLC and VYM?
EMLC and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 561 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMLC or VYM?
EMLC yields 6.15% while VYM yields 2.86%, so EMLC currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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