FGDL vs VYM
Franklin Responsibly Sourced Gold ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FGDL delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 568 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FGDL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $415M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 2 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.20% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +29.33% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +31.43% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 30, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FGDL vs VYM Performance
Franklin Responsibly Sourced Gold ETF (FGDL) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FGDL returned +29.33% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, FGDL is down 0.20% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, FGDL compounded at +31.43% per year against +18.60% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, FGDL has the edge at +23.57% annualized vs +7.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FGDL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.7% 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 -26.6% for FGDL 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 0.23. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FGDL charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FGDL currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FGDL or VYM?
FGDL has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FGDL or VYM?
Over the past year FGDL returned +29.33% vs +24.43% for VYM, so FGDL leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FGDL annualized +23.57% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FGDL or VYM?
FGDL has been the more volatile fund at 17.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FGDL -26.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FGDL and VYM?
FGDL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.23, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FGDL or VYM?
FGDL yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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