FNDC vs VYM
Schwab Fundamental International Small Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. FNDC offers more diversification with 1332 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FNDC | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.72% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,611 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +13.64% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.06% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.43% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.37% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 15, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FNDC vs VYM Performance
Schwab Fundamental International Small Equity ETF (FNDC) is a ETF from Charles Schwab Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FNDC returned +22.06% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, FNDC is up 13.64% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, FNDC compounded at +18.43% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.37% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +6.89%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FNDC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.5% 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 -46.2% for FNDC 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FNDC charges 0.39% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $4 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FNDC currently yields 3.72% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FNDC and VYM share 8 holdings out of 1882 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FNDC or VYM?
FNDC has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FNDC or VYM?
Over the past year FNDC returned +22.06% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FNDC annualized +6.89% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FNDC or VYM?
FNDC has been the more volatile fund at 15.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FNDC -46.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FNDC and VYM?
FNDC and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FNDC and VYM?
FNDC and VYM share 8 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1882 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FNDC or VYM?
FNDC yields 3.72% while VYM yields 2.86%, so FNDC currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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