FRDM vs VYM
Freedom 100 Emerging Markets ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FRDM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FRDM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.3B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.53% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 134 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +25.77% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +59.76% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +31.27% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +16.65% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -40.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Freedom ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 23, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FRDM vs VYM Performance
Freedom 100 Emerging Markets ETF (FRDM) is a ETF from Freedom ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FRDM returned +59.76% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, FRDM is up 25.77% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, FRDM compounded at +31.27% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +16.65% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, FRDM has the edge at +16.45% annualized vs +7.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FRDM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.2% 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 -40.5% for FRDM 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FRDM charges 0.49% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $4 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FRDM currently yields 1.53% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FRDM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 685 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, FRDM or VYM?
FRDM has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FRDM or VYM?
Over the past year FRDM returned +59.76% vs +25.99% for VYM, so FRDM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), FRDM annualized +16.45% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FRDM or VYM?
FRDM has been the more volatile fund at 23.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FRDM -40.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FRDM and VYM?
FRDM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FRDM and VYM?
FRDM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 685 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FRDM or VYM?
FRDM yields 1.53% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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