EPSB vs VYM
Harbor SMID Cap Core ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. EPSB delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EPSB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.88% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.12% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 58 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +20.80% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +30.85% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Harbor Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 1, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EPSB vs VYM Performance
Harbor SMID Cap Core ETF (EPSB) is a ETF from Harbor Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EPSB returned +30.85% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, EPSB is up 20.80% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 12.8% for EPSB. 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 -8.5% for EPSB 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 0.81. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EPSB charges 0.88% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $88 vs $4 annually, a gap of $84 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EPSB currently yields 1.12% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EPSB and VYM share 22 holdings out of 592 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EPSB or VYM?
EPSB has an expense ratio of 0.88% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $84 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EPSB or VYM?
Over the past year EPSB returned +30.85% vs +26.12% for VYM, so EPSB leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), EPSB annualized +29.88% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EPSB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 12.8% for EPSB. Worst drawdown: EPSB -8.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EPSB and VYM?
EPSB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.81, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EPSB and VYM?
EPSB and VYM share 22 common holdings with a 1.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 592 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EPSB or VYM?
EPSB yields 1.12% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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