EWM vs VYM
iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | EWM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $307M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.69% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 26 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +4.49% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.33% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.81% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.54% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 32.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -89.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 12, 1996 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EWM vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI Malaysia ETF (EWM) 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 EWM returned +18.33% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, EWM is up 4.49% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, EWM compounded at +13.81% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.54% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs -1.51%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EWM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 32.7% 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 -89.5% for EWM 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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EWM charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EWM currently yields 3.69% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EWM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 580 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, EWM or VYM?
EWM has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EWM or VYM?
Over the past year EWM returned +18.33% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), EWM annualized -1.51% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EWM or VYM?
EWM has been the more volatile fund at 32.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EWM -89.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EWM and VYM?
EWM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EWM and VYM?
EWM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 580 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EWM or VYM?
EWM yields 3.69% while VYM yields 2.86%, so EWM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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