HELX vs VYM
Franklin Genomic Advancements ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. HELX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HELX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $29M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 65 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +11.71% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +39.27% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.04% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -5.59% | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 25.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 25, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HELX vs VYM Performance
Franklin Genomic Advancements ETF (HELX) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HELX returned +39.27% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, HELX is up 11.71% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, HELX compounded at +10.04% per year against +18.60% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -5.59% and +12.30% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, HELX has the edge at +8.63% annualized vs +7.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HELX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 25.0% 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 -58.8% for HELX 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 0.52. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HELX charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HELX currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HELX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 562 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HELX or VYM?
HELX has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HELX or VYM?
Over the past year HELX returned +39.27% vs +24.43% for VYM, so HELX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), HELX annualized +8.63% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HELX or VYM?
HELX has been the more volatile fund at 25.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: HELX -58.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HELX and VYM?
HELX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.52, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HELX and VYM?
HELX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 562 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HELX or VYM?
HELX yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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