FTGS vs VYM
First Trust Growth Strength 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 | FTGS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.3B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.09% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 51 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.97% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.39% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.46% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 25, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FTGS vs VYM Performance
First Trust Growth Strength ETF (FTGS) 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 FTGS returned +16.39% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, FTGS is up 12.97% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, FTGS compounded at +18.46% per year against +18.43% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, FTGS has the edge at +19.91% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTGS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% 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 -20.0% for FTGS 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTGS 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, FTGS currently yields 0.09% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FTGS and VYM share 10 holdings out of 598 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTGS or VYM?
FTGS 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, FTGS or VYM?
Over the past year FTGS returned +16.39% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), FTGS annualized +19.91% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTGS or VYM?
FTGS has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FTGS -20.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FTGS and VYM?
FTGS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTGS and VYM?
FTGS and VYM share 10 common holdings with a 4.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 598 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTGS or VYM?
FTGS yields 0.09% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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