FJP vs VYM
First Trust Japan AlphaDEX Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FJP delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FJP | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.80% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $262M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.58% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 102 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +16.25% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.91% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.40% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +11.49% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 18, 2011 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FJP vs VYM Performance
First Trust Japan AlphaDEX Fund (FJP) 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 FJP returned +24.91% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, FJP is up 16.25% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, FJP compounded at +20.40% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +11.49% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 15-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +5.20%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FJP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% 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 -43.9% for FJP 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FJP charges 0.80% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $80 vs $4 annually, a gap of $76 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FJP currently yields 2.58% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FJP and VYM share 0 holdings out of 703 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, FJP or VYM?
FJP has an expense ratio of 0.80% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $76 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FJP or VYM?
Over the past year FJP returned +24.91% vs +24.22% for VYM, so FJP leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (15 years), FJP annualized +5.20% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FJP or VYM?
FJP has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FJP -43.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FJP and VYM?
FJP and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FJP and VYM?
FJP and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 703 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FJP or VYM?
FJP yields 2.58% while VYM yields 2.24%, so FJP currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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