FSST vs VYM
Fidelity Sustainable US Equity 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FSST | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $13M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.55% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 90 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +15.66% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.71% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.45% | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 15, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FSST vs VYM Performance
Fidelity Sustainable US Equity ETF (FSST) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FSST returned +12.71% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, FSST is up 15.66% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Over three years, FSST compounded at +19.45% per year against +19.14% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, FSST has the edge at +11.54% annualized vs +7.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FSST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.4% 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 -26.3% for FSST 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSST charges 0.59% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $4 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSST currently yields 1.55% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FSST and VYM share 20 holdings out of 677 unique holdings combined, representing a 11.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FSST or VYM?
FSST has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSST or VYM?
Over the past year FSST returned +12.71% vs +23.85% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FSST annualized +11.54% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSST or VYM?
FSST has been the more volatile fund at 17.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FSST -26.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FSST and VYM?
FSST and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSST and VYM?
FSST and VYM share 20 common holdings with a 11.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 677 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSST or VYM?
FSST yields 1.55% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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