GIAX vs VYM
Nicholas Global Equity and Income 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 | GIAX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.03% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $112M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 26.86% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 87 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.95% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.69% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | XFunds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 29, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GIAX vs VYM Performance
Nicholas Global Equity and Income ETF (GIAX) is a ETF from XFunds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GIAX returned +17.69% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, GIAX is up 12.95% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GIAX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.1% 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 -20.4% for GIAX 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GIAX charges 1.03% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $103 vs $4 annually, a gap of $99 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GIAX currently yields 26.86% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GIAX and VYM share 1 holdings out of 628 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GIAX | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AVGO | 3.67% | 7.29% | 3.62% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GIAX or VYM?
GIAX has an expense ratio of 1.03% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $99 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GIAX or VYM?
Over the past year GIAX returned +17.69% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), GIAX annualized +14.36% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GIAX or VYM?
GIAX has been the more volatile fund at 21.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GIAX -20.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GIAX and VYM?
GIAX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GIAX and VYM?
GIAX and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 3.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 628 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GIAX or VYM?
GIAX yields 26.86% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GIAX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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