GRF vs VYM
Eagle Capital Growth Fund Inc. 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 | GRF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.61% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $40M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.59% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 26 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -3.09% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.84% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.47% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.71% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 123.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -91.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Eagle Capital Growth Fund Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 2, 1990 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GRF vs VYM Performance
Eagle Capital Growth Fund Inc. (GRF) is a ETF from Eagle Capital Growth Fund Inc. and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GRF returned +12.84% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, GRF is down 3.09% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, GRF compounded at +12.47% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.71% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +1.56%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GRF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 123.6% 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 -91.1% for GRF 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 0.09. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GRF charges 1.61% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $161 vs $4 annually, a gap of $157 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GRF currently yields 8.59% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GRF and VYM share 10 holdings out of 570 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GRF or VYM?
GRF has an expense ratio of 1.61% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $157 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GRF or VYM?
Over the past year GRF returned +12.84% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), GRF annualized +1.56% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GRF or VYM?
GRF has been the more volatile fund at 123.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GRF -91.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GRF and VYM?
GRF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.09, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GRF and VYM?
GRF and VYM share 10 common holdings with a 4.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 570 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GRF or VYM?
GRF yields 8.59% while VYM yields 2.86%, so GRF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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