FEMB vs VYM
First Trust Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond 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 | FEMB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $380M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.19% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 68 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +2.96% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.98% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.72% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.10% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -47.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 4, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FEMB vs VYM Performance
First Trust Emerging Markets Local Currency Bond ETF (FEMB) 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 FEMB returned +7.98% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, FEMB is up 2.96% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, FEMB compounded at +7.72% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.10% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs -1.78%. 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 11.4% for FEMB. 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 -47.5% for FEMB 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FEMB 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, FEMB currently yields 6.19% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FEMB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 604 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, FEMB or VYM?
FEMB 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, FEMB or VYM?
Over the past year FEMB returned +7.98% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FEMB annualized -1.78% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FEMB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.4% for FEMB. Worst drawdown: FEMB -47.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FEMB and VYM?
FEMB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FEMB and VYM?
FEMB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FEMB or VYM?
FEMB yields 6.19% while VYM yields 2.24%, so FEMB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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