FDNI vs VYM
First Trust Dow Jones International Internet 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FDNI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $32M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -17.94% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | -17.50% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.87% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -5.75% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 27.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -71.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 6, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FDNI vs VYM Performance
First Trust Dow Jones International Internet ETF (FDNI) 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 FDNI returned -17.50% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, FDNI is down 17.94% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, FDNI compounded at +10.87% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -5.75% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +5.45%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FDNI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 27.7% 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 -71.1% for FDNI 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 0.40. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FDNI charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FDNI currently yields 1.37% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FDNI and VYM share 0 holdings out of 643 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, FDNI or VYM?
FDNI has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FDNI or VYM?
Over the past year FDNI returned -17.50% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FDNI annualized +5.45% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FDNI or VYM?
FDNI has been the more volatile fund at 27.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FDNI -71.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FDNI and VYM?
FDNI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.40, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FDNI and VYM?
FDNI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 643 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FDNI or VYM?
FDNI yields 1.37% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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