FLAU vs VYM
Franklin FTSE Australia 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 | FLAU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $181M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.05% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 111 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +14.53% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.82% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.04% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.27% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 2, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLAU vs VYM Performance
Franklin FTSE Australia ETF (FLAU) 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 FLAU returned +16.82% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, FLAU is up 14.53% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, FLAU compounded at +16.04% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.27% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +6.84%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLAU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.1% 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 -46.0% for FLAU 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLAU charges 0.09% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $9 vs $4 annually, a gap of $5 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLAU currently yields 3.05% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FLAU and VYM share 1 holdings out of 706 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FLAU | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIG:LN | 0.60% | 0.01% | 0.59% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLAU or VYM?
FLAU has an expense ratio of 0.09% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $5 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLAU or VYM?
Over the past year FLAU returned +16.82% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLAU annualized +6.84% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLAU or VYM?
FLAU has been the more volatile fund at 20.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FLAU -46.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLAU and VYM?
FLAU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLAU and VYM?
FLAU and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 706 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLAU or VYM?
FLAU yields 3.05% while VYM yields 2.24%, so FLAU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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