EMXF vs VYM
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. EMXF delivered stronger 1-year returns. EMXF offers more diversification with 650 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EMXF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.17% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $165M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.81% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 650 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +21.00% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.44% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.93% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.98% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 6, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EMXF vs VYM Performance
iShares ESG Advanced MSCI EM ETF (EMXF) 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 EMXF returned +33.44% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, EMXF is up 21.00% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, EMXF compounded at +22.93% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.98% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, EMXF has the edge at +11.20% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EMXF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -33.1% for EMXF 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EMXF charges 0.17% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $17 vs $4 annually, a gap of $13 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EMXF currently yields 2.81% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EMXF and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1175 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EMXF | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAP | 0.48% | 0.11% | 0.37% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EMXF or VYM?
EMXF has an expense ratio of 0.17% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $13 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EMXF or VYM?
Over the past year EMXF returned +33.44% vs +24.22% for VYM, so EMXF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), EMXF annualized +11.20% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EMXF or VYM?
EMXF has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EMXF -33.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EMXF and VYM?
EMXF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EMXF and VYM?
EMXF and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1175 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EMXF or VYM?
EMXF yields 2.81% while VYM yields 2.24%, so EMXF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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