EMM vs VYM
Global X Emerging Markets ex-China ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. EMM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.66% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $56M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.73% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 47 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +22.70% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +42.07% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.23% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 24, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EMM vs VYM Performance
Global X Emerging Markets ex-China ETF (EMM) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMM returned +42.07% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, EMM is up 22.70% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, EMM compounded at +19.23% per year against +18.29% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, EMM has the edge at +18.15% annualized vs +7.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.9% 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 -22.0% for EMM 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 0.52. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMM charges 0.66% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $66 vs $4 annually, a gap of $62 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMM currently yields 0.73% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EMM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 602 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, EMM or VYM?
EMM has an expense ratio of 0.66% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $62 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMM or VYM?
Over the past year EMM returned +42.07% vs +25.99% for VYM, so EMM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), EMM annualized +18.15% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMM or VYM?
EMM has been the more volatile fund at 18.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EMM -22.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EMM and VYM?
EMM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.52, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMM and VYM?
EMM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 602 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMM or VYM?
EMM yields 0.73% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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