FAUG vs VYM
FAUG vs VYM
FT Vest US Equity Buffer ETF - August 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 | FAUG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.2B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.36% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.47% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.84% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.17% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 7, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FAUG vs VYM Performance
FT Vest US Equity Buffer ETF - August (FAUG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FAUG returned +14.47% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, FAUG is up 8.36% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, FAUG compounded at +13.84% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.17% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, FAUG has the edge at +10.01% annualized vs +7.07%. 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 10.8% for FAUG. 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 -22.3% for FAUG 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 0.88. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FAUG charges 0.85% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $4 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FAUG currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FAUG and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 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, FAUG or VYM?
FAUG has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FAUG or VYM?
Over the past year FAUG returned +14.47% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), FAUG annualized +10.01% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAUG or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 10.8% for FAUG. Worst drawdown: FAUG -22.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FAUG and VYM?
FAUG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.88, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FAUG and VYM?
FAUG and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAUG or VYM?
FAUG yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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