FNDF vs VYM
Schwab Fundamental International Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FNDF delivered stronger 1-year returns. FNDF offers more diversification with 893 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FNDF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $25.8B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.01% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 893 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +21.47% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.91% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.72% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.71% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Charles Schwab Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 15, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FNDF vs VYM Performance
Schwab Fundamental International Equity ETF (FNDF) 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 FNDF returned +35.91% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, FNDF is up 21.47% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, FNDF compounded at +23.72% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +14.71% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, FNDF has the edge at +7.74% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FNDF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.6% 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 -44.0% for FNDF 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FNDF charges 0.25% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $4 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FNDF currently yields 3.01% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FNDF and VYM share 7 holdings out of 1468 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FNDF or VYM?
FNDF has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FNDF or VYM?
Over the past year FNDF returned +35.91% vs +20.88% for VYM, so FNDF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FNDF annualized +7.74% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FNDF or VYM?
FNDF has been the more volatile fund at 15.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FNDF -44.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FNDF and VYM?
FNDF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FNDF and VYM?
FNDF and VYM share 7 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1468 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FNDF or VYM?
FNDF yields 3.01% while VYM yields 2.24%, so FNDF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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