GARP vs VYM
iShares MSCI USA Quality GARP ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. GARP delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GARP | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.6B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.26% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 135 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +22.56% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.10% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +32.50% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +18.36% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -31.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 14, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GARP vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI USA Quality GARP ETF (GARP) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GARP returned +35.10% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, GARP is up 22.56% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, GARP compounded at +32.50% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +18.36% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, GARP has the edge at +20.78% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GARP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.5% 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 -31.3% for GARP 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GARP charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GARP currently yields 0.26% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GARP and VYM share 18 holdings out of 672 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GARP or VYM?
GARP has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GARP or VYM?
Over the past year GARP returned +35.10% vs +25.03% for VYM, so GARP leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), GARP annualized +20.78% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GARP or VYM?
GARP has been the more volatile fund at 20.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GARP -31.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GARP and VYM?
GARP and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GARP and VYM?
GARP and VYM share 18 common holdings with a 7.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 672 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GARP or VYM?
GARP yields 0.26% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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