FTAG vs VYM
First Trust Indxx Global Agriculture 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 | FTAG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $14M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.30% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 58 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +10.63% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.63% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.31% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.71% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -98.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Commodity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 11, 2010 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FTAG vs VYM Performance
First Trust Indxx Global Agriculture ETF (FTAG) 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 FTAG returned +12.63% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, FTAG is up 10.63% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, FTAG compounded at +4.31% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +1.71% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs -17.43%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTAG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.8% 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 -98.4% for FTAG 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
FTAG 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, FTAG currently yields 1.30% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FTAG and VYM share 6 holdings out of 650 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTAG or VYM?
FTAG 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, FTAG or VYM?
Over the past year FTAG returned +12.63% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), FTAG annualized -17.43% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTAG or VYM?
FTAG has been the more volatile fund at 30.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FTAG -98.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FTAG and VYM?
FTAG 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 FTAG and VYM?
FTAG and VYM share 6 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 650 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTAG or VYM?
FTAG yields 1.30% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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