FSTA vs VYM
Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FSTA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.08% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.4B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.21% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 96 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +10.86% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.32% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +8.06% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.03% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -25.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Fidelity Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 21, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FSTA vs VYM Performance
Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (FSTA) is a ETF from Fidelity Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FSTA returned +6.32% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, FSTA is up 10.86% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, FSTA compounded at +8.06% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.03% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, FSTA has the edge at +7.16% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 12.4% for FSTA. 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 -25.7% for FSTA 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FSTA charges 0.08% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $8 vs $4 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FSTA currently yields 2.21% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FSTA and VYM share 43 holdings out of 608 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, FSTA or VYM?
FSTA has an expense ratio of 0.08% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FSTA or VYM?
Over the past year FSTA returned +6.32% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), FSTA annualized +7.16% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FSTA or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 12.4% for FSTA. Worst drawdown: FSTA -25.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FSTA and VYM?
FSTA and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FSTA and VYM?
FSTA and VYM share 43 common holdings with a 11.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 608 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FSTA or VYM?
FSTA yields 2.21% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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