FRNW vs VYM
Fidelity Clean Energy ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FRNW delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FRNW | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $98M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.24% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 68 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +5.89% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.18% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.46% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 29.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -59.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 5, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FRNW vs VYM Performance
Fidelity Clean Energy ETF (FRNW) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FRNW returned +27.18% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, FRNW is up 5.89% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, FRNW compounded at +9.46% per year against +18.72% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -1.66%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FRNW has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 29.2% 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 -59.4% for FRNW 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 0.53. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FRNW 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, FRNW currently yields 1.24% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FRNW 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 FRNW | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CWEN | 1.98% | 0.02% | 1.96% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FRNW or VYM?
FRNW 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, FRNW or VYM?
Over the past year FRNW returned +27.18% vs +22.16% for VYM, so FRNW leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), FRNW annualized -1.66% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FRNW or VYM?
FRNW has been the more volatile fund at 29.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FRNW -59.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FRNW and VYM?
FRNW and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.53, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FRNW and VYM?
FRNW and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 653 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FRNW or VYM?
FRNW yields 1.24% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.