FTCE vs VYM
First Trust New Constructs Core Earnings Leaders ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FTCE delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTCE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $87M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.66% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 103 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.93% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.49% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 2, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FTCE vs VYM Performance
First Trust New Constructs Core Earnings Leaders ETF (FTCE) 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 FTCE returned +24.49% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, FTCE is up 12.93% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTCE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% 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 -18.1% for FTCE 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTCE charges 0.60% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $4 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTCE currently yields 0.66% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FTCE and VYM share 45 holdings out of 658 unique holdings combined, representing a 15.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTCE or VYM?
FTCE has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTCE or VYM?
Over the past year FTCE returned +24.49% vs +24.22% for VYM, so FTCE leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FTCE annualized +21.16% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTCE or VYM?
FTCE has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FTCE -18.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FTCE and VYM?
FTCE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTCE and VYM?
FTCE and VYM share 45 common holdings with a 15.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 658 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTCE or VYM?
FTCE yields 0.66% 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.