FLUD vs VYM
Franklin Ultra Short Bond 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 | FLUD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $561M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.42% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 443 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.69% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.93% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.09% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.67% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 0.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -1.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 14, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLUD vs VYM Performance
Franklin Ultra Short Bond ETF (FLUD) 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 FLUD returned +3.93% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, FLUD is up 1.69% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, FLUD compounded at +5.09% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.67% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +3.01%. 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 0.9% for FLUD. 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 -1.7% for FLUD 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 0.11. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLUD 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, FLUD currently yields 4.42% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FLUD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 856 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, FLUD or VYM?
FLUD 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, FLUD or VYM?
Over the past year FLUD returned +3.93% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), FLUD annualized +3.01% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLUD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 0.9% for FLUD. Worst drawdown: FLUD -1.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLUD and VYM?
FLUD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.11, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLUD and VYM?
FLUD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 856 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLUD or VYM?
FLUD yields 4.42% while VYM yields 2.86%, so FLUD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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