EVSM vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: VYMMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricEVSMVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.19%0.04%
AUM$783M$79.0B
Dividend Yield2.99%2.86%
Holdings359568
YTD Return+1.43%+15.80%
1Y Return+2.94%+26.12%
3Y Return (annualized)-+18.25%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.51%
Volatility (annualized)1.4%14.6%
Max Drawdown-1.5%-58.8%
Fund FamilyEaton VanceVanguard (US)
CategoryTax PreferredEquity
InceptionMar 25, 2024Nov 10, 2006

EVSM vs VYM Performance

Eaton Vance Short Duration Municipal Income ETF (EVSM) is a ETF from Eaton Vance and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EVSM returned +2.94% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, EVSM is up 1.43% 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 1.4% for EVSM. 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 -1.5% for EVSM 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.

Fees and Cost Over Time

EVSM charges 0.19% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $4 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EVSM currently yields 2.99% against 2.86% for VYM.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

EVSM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 656 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, EVSM or VYM?

EVSM has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.

Which performed better, EVSM or VYM?

Over the past year EVSM returned +2.94% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), EVSM annualized +3.47% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, EVSM or VYM?

VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 1.4% for EVSM. Worst drawdown: EVSM -1.5% vs VYM -58.8%.

Should I hold both EVSM and VYM?

EVSM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

What is the holdings overlap between EVSM and VYM?

EVSM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 656 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, EVSM or VYM?

EVSM yields 2.99% while VYM yields 2.86%, so EVSM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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