FIIG vs VYM
First Trust Intermediate Duration Investment Grade Corporate 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 | FIIG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $646M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.05% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 235 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -0.32% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.99% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.87% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 2, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FIIG vs VYM Performance
First Trust Intermediate Duration Investment Grade Corporate ETF (FIIG) 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 FIIG returned +1.99% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, FIIG is down 0.32% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, FIIG compounded at +5.87% per year against +19.07% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +5.49%. 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 6.2% for FIIG. 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 -5.5% for FIIG 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FIIG charges 0.49% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $4 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FIIG currently yields 5.05% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FIIG and VYM share 1 holdings out of 762 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FIIG | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| MMC 4.75 03/15/39 | 0.15% | 0.33% | 0.18% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FIIG or VYM?
FIIG has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FIIG or VYM?
Over the past year FIIG returned +1.99% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), FIIG annualized +5.49% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FIIG or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 6.2% for FIIG. Worst drawdown: FIIG -5.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FIIG and VYM?
FIIG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FIIG and VYM?
FIIG and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 762 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FIIG or VYM?
FIIG yields 5.05% while VYM yields 2.24%, so FIIG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.