EPHE vs VYM
iShares MSCI Philippines 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 | EPHE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $135M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.78% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 37 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.77% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.05% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.51% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.28% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 28, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EPHE vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI Philippines ETF (EPHE) 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 EPHE returned +1.05% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, EPHE is up 3.77% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, EPHE compounded at +3.51% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.28% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs +0.90%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EPHE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.8% 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 -55.8% for EPHE 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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EPHE charges 0.59% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $4 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EPHE currently yields 2.78% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EPHE and VYM share 1 holdings out of 592 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in EPHE | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| TEL | 3.32% | 0.30% | 3.02% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EPHE or VYM?
EPHE has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EPHE or VYM?
Over the past year EPHE returned +1.05% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), EPHE annualized +0.90% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EPHE or VYM?
EPHE has been the more volatile fund at 19.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EPHE -55.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EPHE and VYM?
EPHE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EPHE and VYM?
EPHE and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 592 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EPHE or VYM?
EPHE yields 2.78% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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