ENFR vs VYM
Alerian Energy Infrastructure ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. ENFR delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ENFR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $498M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.54% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +26.34% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.07% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.45% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +21.63% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -74.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ALPS Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 31, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ENFR vs VYM Performance
Alerian Energy Infrastructure ETF (ENFR) is a ETF from ALPS Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ENFR returned +29.07% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, ENFR is up 26.34% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, ENFR compounded at +26.45% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +21.63% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +6.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ENFR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.2% 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 -74.3% for ENFR 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ENFR charges 0.35% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $4 annually, a gap of $31 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ENFR currently yields 4.54% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
ENFR and VYM share 6 holdings out of 580 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ENFR or VYM?
ENFR has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $31 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ENFR or VYM?
Over the past year ENFR returned +29.07% vs +25.03% for VYM, so ENFR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), ENFR annualized +6.11% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ENFR or VYM?
ENFR has been the more volatile fund at 24.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ENFR -74.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ENFR and VYM?
ENFR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ENFR and VYM?
ENFR and VYM share 6 common holdings with a 1.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 580 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ENFR or VYM?
ENFR yields 4.54% while VYM yields 2.86%, so ENFR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.