GLOF vs VYM
iShares Global Equity Factor ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. GLOF delivered stronger 1-year returns. GLOF offers more diversification with 708 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GLOF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $225M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.58% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 708 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +16.51% | +15.36% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.29% | +21.96% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.05% | +18.85% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.24% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 28, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GLOF vs VYM Performance
iShares Global Equity Factor ETF (GLOF) 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 GLOF returned +24.29% while VYM returned +21.96%. Year to date, GLOF is up 16.51% versus a gain of 15.36% for VYM.
Over three years, GLOF compounded at +23.05% per year against +18.85% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.24% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, GLOF has the edge at +9.31% annualized vs +7.03%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GLOF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% 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 -36.7% for GLOF 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GLOF charges 0.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $4 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GLOF currently yields 1.58% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GLOF and VYM share 92 holdings out of 1143 unique holdings combined, representing a 17.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GLOF or VYM?
GLOF has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GLOF or VYM?
Over the past year GLOF returned +24.29% vs +21.96% for VYM, so GLOF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), GLOF annualized +9.31% vs +7.03% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GLOF or VYM?
GLOF has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GLOF -36.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GLOF and VYM?
GLOF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GLOF and VYM?
GLOF and VYM share 92 common holdings with a 17.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1143 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GLOF or VYM?
GLOF yields 1.58% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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