FPXE vs VYM
First Trust IPOX Europe Equity Opportunities 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 603 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FPXE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.46% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 103 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +9.69% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.61% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.98% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.88% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -49.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 2, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FPXE vs VYM Performance
First Trust IPOX Europe Equity Opportunities ETF (FPXE) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FPXE returned +8.61% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, FPXE is up 9.69% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, FPXE compounded at +18.98% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.88% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, FPXE has the edge at +8.69% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FPXE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.1% 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 -49.5% for FPXE 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FPXE charges 0.70% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $4 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FPXE currently yields 1.46% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FPXE or VYM?
FPXE has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FPXE or VYM?
Over the past year FPXE returned +8.61% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FPXE annualized +8.69% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FPXE or VYM?
FPXE has been the more volatile fund at 20.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FPXE -49.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FPXE and VYM?
FPXE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FPXE and VYM?
FPXE and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 702 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FPXE or VYM?
FPXE yields 1.46% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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