FLQL vs VYM
Franklin US Large Cap Multifactor Index 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 | FLQL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 220 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +14.28% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.84% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.19% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.01% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLQL vs VYM Performance
Franklin US Large Cap Multifactor Index ETF (FLQL) 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 FLQL returned +22.84% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, FLQL is up 14.28% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, FLQL compounded at +22.19% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +14.01% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FLQL has the edge at +14.89% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLQL 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 -33.6% for FLQL 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLQL 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, FLQL currently yields 1.05% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FLQL and VYM share 8 holdings out of 566 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FLQL or VYM?
FLQL 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, FLQL or VYM?
Over the past year FLQL returned +22.84% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLQL annualized +14.89% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLQL or VYM?
FLQL has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FLQL -33.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLQL and VYM?
FLQL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLQL and VYM?
FLQL and VYM share 8 common holdings with a 3.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 566 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLQL or VYM?
FLQL yields 1.05% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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