FLSW vs VYM
Franklin FTSE Switzerland 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 | FLSW | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.09% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $84M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.28% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 54 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +9.28% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.52% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.12% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.41% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 6, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLSW vs VYM Performance
Franklin FTSE Switzerland ETF (FLSW) 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 FLSW returned +19.52% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, FLSW is up 9.28% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, FLSW compounded at +15.12% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.41% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, FLSW has the edge at +9.30% annualized vs +7.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FLSW has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% 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 -28.2% for FLSW 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 0.74. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLSW 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, FLSW currently yields 2.28% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FLSW and VYM share 0 holdings out of 652 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, FLSW or VYM?
FLSW 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, FLSW or VYM?
Over the past year FLSW returned +19.52% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), FLSW annualized +9.30% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLSW or VYM?
FLSW has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FLSW -28.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLSW and VYM?
FLSW and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.74, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLSW and VYM?
FLSW and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 652 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLSW or VYM?
FLSW yields 2.28% while VYM yields 2.24%, so FLSW currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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