EQLT vs VYM
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Quality Factor ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. EQLT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EQLT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $12M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.13% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 321 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +25.31% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +46.36% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.92% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.92% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 19.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 4, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EQLT vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Quality Factor ETF (EQLT) 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 EQLT returned +46.36% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, EQLT is up 25.31% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, EQLT compounded at +2.92% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.92% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +3.67%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EQLT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 19.1% 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 -45.8% for EQLT 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EQLT 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, EQLT currently yields 2.13% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EQLT and VYM share 4 holdings out of 852 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EQLT or VYM?
EQLT 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, EQLT or VYM?
Over the past year EQLT returned +46.36% vs +26.12% for VYM, so EQLT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), EQLT annualized +3.67% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EQLT or VYM?
EQLT has been the more volatile fund at 19.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EQLT -45.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EQLT and VYM?
EQLT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EQLT and VYM?
EQLT and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 0.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 852 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EQLT or VYM?
EQLT yields 2.13% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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