FLDR vs VYM
Fidelity Low Duration Bond Factor 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 | FLDR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.9B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.69% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 361 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.35% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.25% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.33% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.20% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 12, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLDR vs VYM Performance
Fidelity Low Duration Bond Factor ETF (FLDR) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FLDR returned +1.25% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, FLDR is down 0.35% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, FLDR compounded at +4.33% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.20% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +2.86%. 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 2.1% for FLDR. 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 -12.2% for FLDR 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLDR 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, FLDR currently yields 4.69% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FLDR and VYM share 0 holdings out of 857 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, FLDR or VYM?
FLDR 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, FLDR or VYM?
Over the past year FLDR returned +1.25% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FLDR annualized +2.86% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLDR or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.1% for FLDR. Worst drawdown: FLDR -12.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLDR and VYM?
FLDR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLDR and VYM?
FLDR and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 857 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLDR or VYM?
FLDR yields 4.69% while VYM yields 2.86%, so FLDR currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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