FPXI vs VYM
First Trust International Equity Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FPXI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FPXI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $302M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.67% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 61 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +19.43% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.51% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.46% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +2.54% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 4, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FPXI vs VYM Performance
First Trust International Equity Opportunities ETF (FPXI) 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 FPXI returned +26.51% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, FPXI is up 19.43% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, FPXI compounded at +23.46% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +2.54% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, FPXI has the edge at +8.12% annualized vs +7.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FPXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.4% 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 -55.8% for FPXI 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FPXI 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, FPXI currently yields 0.67% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FPXI and VYM share 1 holdings out of 653 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in FPXI | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| NE | 0.64% | 0.02% | 0.62% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FPXI or VYM?
FPXI 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, FPXI or VYM?
Over the past year FPXI returned +26.51% vs +23.48% for VYM, so FPXI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), FPXI annualized +8.12% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FPXI or VYM?
FPXI has been the more volatile fund at 20.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FPXI -55.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FPXI and VYM?
FPXI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FPXI and VYM?
FPXI and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 653 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FPXI or VYM?
FPXI yields 0.67% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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