FLHK vs VYM
Franklin FTSE Hong Kong 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 | FLHK | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $13M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.33% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 72 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +11.92% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.38% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -1.32% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.37% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -47.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 2, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLHK vs VYM Performance
Franklin FTSE Hong Kong ETF (FLHK) 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 FLHK returned +20.38% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, FLHK is up 11.92% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, FLHK compounded at -1.32% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.37% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs -0.40%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLHK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.1% 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 -47.0% for FLHK 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 0.31. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLHK 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, FLHK currently yields 4.33% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLHK or VYM?
FLHK 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, FLHK or VYM?
Over the past year FLHK returned +20.38% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FLHK annualized -0.40% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLHK or VYM?
FLHK has been the more volatile fund at 26.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FLHK -47.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLHK and VYM?
FLHK and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.31, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLHK or VYM?
FLHK yields 4.33% while VYM yields 2.86%, so FLHK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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