FDLS vs VYM
Inspire Fidelis Multi Factor ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FDLS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDLS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $244M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.80% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +22.83% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.81% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.16% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Inspire ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 23, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FDLS vs VYM Performance
Inspire Fidelis Multi Factor ETF (FDLS) is a ETF from Inspire ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FDLS returned +33.81% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, FDLS is up 22.83% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, FDLS compounded at +20.16% per year against +19.03% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, FDLS has the edge at +17.97% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDLS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.6% 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 -23.3% for FDLS 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDLS charges 0.69% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $4 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDLS currently yields 0.80% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FDLS and VYM share 29 holdings out of 675 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FDLS or VYM?
FDLS has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDLS or VYM?
Over the past year FDLS returned +33.81% vs +24.22% for VYM, so FDLS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FDLS annualized +17.97% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDLS or VYM?
FDLS has been the more volatile fund at 18.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FDLS -23.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FDLS and VYM?
FDLS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDLS and VYM?
FDLS and VYM share 29 common holdings with a 3.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 675 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDLS or VYM?
FDLS yields 0.80% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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