GYLD vs VYM
Arrow Dow Jones Global Yield 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 | GYLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $37M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.30% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 155 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +11.07% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | +16.49% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.94% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.99% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -70.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Arrow Investment Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | May 8, 2012 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GYLD vs VYM Performance
Arrow Dow Jones Global Yield ETF (GYLD) is a ETF from Arrow Investment Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GYLD returned +16.49% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, GYLD is up 11.07% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, GYLD compounded at +14.94% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.99% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 14-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -0.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GYLD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.4% 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 -70.0% for GYLD 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GYLD charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GYLD currently yields 7.30% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GYLD and VYM share 4 holdings out of 717 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GYLD or VYM?
GYLD has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GYLD or VYM?
Over the past year GYLD returned +16.49% vs +22.16% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (14 years), GYLD annualized -0.91% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GYLD or VYM?
GYLD has been the more volatile fund at 16.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GYLD -70.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GYLD and VYM?
GYLD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GYLD and VYM?
GYLD and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 717 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GYLD or VYM?
GYLD yields 7.30% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GYLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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