EVF vs VYM
Eaton Vance Senior Income Trust 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EVF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.38% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $108M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.85% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 462 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +0.05% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.50% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.76% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.56% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -71.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Eaton Vance | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 30, 1998 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EVF vs VYM Performance
Eaton Vance Senior Income Trust (EVF) is a ETF from Eaton Vance and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EVF returned -1.50% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, EVF is up 0.05% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, EVF compounded at +5.76% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.56% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs -0.73%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 14.1% for EVF. 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 -71.3% for EVF 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EVF charges 2.38% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $238 vs $4 annually, a gap of $234 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EVF currently yields 7.85% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EVF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 811 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EVF or VYM?
EVF has an expense ratio of 2.38% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $234 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EVF or VYM?
Over the past year EVF returned -1.50% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), EVF annualized -0.73% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EVF or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.1% for EVF. Worst drawdown: EVF -71.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EVF and VYM?
EVF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EVF and VYM?
EVF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 811 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EVF or VYM?
EVF yields 7.85% while VYM yields 2.24%, so EVF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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