FTXR vs VYM
First Trust Nasdaq Transportation ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FTXR delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FTXR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.1B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.13% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 45 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +16.10% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.42% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.78% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.72% | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 23.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 20, 2016 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FTXR vs VYM Performance
First Trust Nasdaq Transportation ETF (FTXR) 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 FTXR returned +33.42% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, FTXR is up 16.10% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, FTXR compounded at +16.78% per year against +18.60% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.72% and +12.30% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, FTXR has the edge at +9.40% annualized vs +7.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FTXR has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 23.9% 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 -53.4% for FTXR 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTXR 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, FTXR currently yields 1.13% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FTXR and VYM share 16 holdings out of 585 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FTXR or VYM?
FTXR 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, FTXR or VYM?
Over the past year FTXR returned +33.42% vs +24.43% for VYM, so FTXR leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), FTXR annualized +9.40% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTXR or VYM?
FTXR has been the more volatile fund at 23.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FTXR -53.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FTXR and VYM?
FTXR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTXR and VYM?
FTXR and VYM share 16 common holdings with a 1.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 585 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTXR or VYM?
FTXR yields 1.13% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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