HUSV vs VYM
First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Domestic 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HUSV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $74M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 101 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.58% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.89% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.95% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.22% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -35.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 24, 2016 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HUSV vs VYM Performance
First Trust Horizon Managed Volatility Domestic ETF (HUSV) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HUSV returned +5.89% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, HUSV is up 8.58% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, HUSV compounded at +9.95% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.22% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, HUSV has the edge at +8.52% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.2% for HUSV. 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 -35.7% for HUSV 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HUSV charges 0.70% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $4 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HUSV currently yields 1.37% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HUSV and VYM share 52 holdings out of 607 unique holdings combined, representing a 20.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HUSV or VYM?
HUSV has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HUSV or VYM?
Over the past year HUSV returned +5.89% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), HUSV annualized +8.52% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HUSV or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.2% for HUSV. Worst drawdown: HUSV -35.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HUSV and VYM?
HUSV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HUSV and VYM?
HUSV and VYM share 52 common holdings with a 20.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HUSV or VYM?
HUSV yields 1.37% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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