EMSF vs VYM
Matthews Emerging Markets Sustainable Future Active ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. EMSF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMSF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $43M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.30% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 60 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +35.23% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +47.03% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.73% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 22.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -24.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Matthews Asia Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 21, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EMSF vs VYM Performance
Matthews Emerging Markets Sustainable Future Active ETF (EMSF) is a ETF from Matthews Asia Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EMSF returned +47.03% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, EMSF is up 35.23% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, EMSF compounded at +18.73% per year against +18.54% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, EMSF has the edge at +18.73% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMSF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 22.7% 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 -24.8% for EMSF 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMSF charges 0.79% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $4 annually, a gap of $75 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMSF currently yields 1.30% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EMSF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 612 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, EMSF or VYM?
EMSF has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $75 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMSF or VYM?
Over the past year EMSF returned +47.03% vs +25.03% for VYM, so EMSF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), EMSF annualized +18.73% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMSF or VYM?
EMSF has been the more volatile fund at 22.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EMSF -24.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EMSF and VYM?
EMSF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMSF and VYM?
EMSF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 612 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMSF or VYM?
EMSF yields 1.30% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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