FBT vs VYM
First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FBT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FBT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.54% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.8B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 31 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +24.66% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +54.97% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.36% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.98% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 22.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 19, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FBT vs VYM Performance
First Trust NYSE Arca Biotechnology Index Fund (FBT) 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 FBT returned +54.97% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, FBT is up 24.66% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, FBT compounded at +19.36% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.98% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, FBT has the edge at +13.69% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FBT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 22.9% 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 -40.5% for FBT 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FBT charges 0.54% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $54 vs $4 annually, a gap of $50 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FBT currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FBT or VYM?
FBT has an expense ratio of 0.54% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $50 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FBT or VYM?
Over the past year FBT returned +54.97% vs +25.03% for VYM, so FBT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), FBT annualized +13.69% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FBT or VYM?
FBT has been the more volatile fund at 22.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FBT -40.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FBT and VYM?
FBT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FBT and VYM?
FBT and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 1.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 586 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FBT or VYM?
FBT yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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