EPU vs VYM
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. EPU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EPU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $536M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.04% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 34 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +25.57% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +79.30% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +46.07% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +33.43% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -64.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2009 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EPU vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI Peru and Global Exposure ETF (EPU) 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 EPU returned +79.30% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, EPU is up 25.57% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, EPU compounded at +46.07% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +33.43% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, EPU has the edge at +9.31% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EPU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.6% 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 -64.6% for EPU 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EPU 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, EPU currently yields 2.04% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EPU and VYM share 2 holdings out of 582 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EPU or VYM?
EPU 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, EPU or VYM?
Over the past year EPU returned +79.30% vs +26.05% for VYM, so EPU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), EPU annualized +9.31% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EPU or VYM?
EPU has been the more volatile fund at 24.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EPU -64.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EPU and VYM?
EPU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EPU and VYM?
EPU and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 582 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EPU or VYM?
EPU yields 2.04% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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