FICS vs VYM
First Trust International Developed Capital Strength 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FICS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $215M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.91% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 59 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.55% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +13.94% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.79% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.36% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 15, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FICS vs VYM Performance
First Trust International Developed Capital Strength ETF (FICS) 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 FICS returned +13.94% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, FICS is up 8.55% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, FICS compounded at +12.79% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +5.36% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, FICS has the edge at +8.18% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FICS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% 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 -29.2% for FICS 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FICS charges 0.70% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $4 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FICS currently yields 1.91% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FICS and VYM share 0 holdings out of 608 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, FICS or VYM?
FICS has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FICS or VYM?
Over the past year FICS returned +13.94% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FICS annualized +8.18% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FICS or VYM?
FICS has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FICS -29.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FICS and VYM?
FICS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FICS and VYM?
FICS and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 608 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FICS or VYM?
FICS yields 1.91% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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