IBDS vs VYM
iShares iBonds Dec 2027 Term Corporate ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. IBDS offers more diversification with 601 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IBDS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.10% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.8B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.31% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 663 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.58% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.74% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.39% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.33% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 12, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IBDS vs VYM Performance
iShares iBonds Dec 2027 Term Corporate ETF (IBDS) 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 IBDS returned +3.74% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, IBDS is up 1.58% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, IBDS compounded at +5.39% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +1.33% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs +1.85%. 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 5.6% for IBDS. 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 -16.8% for IBDS 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 0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IBDS charges 0.10% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $10 vs $4 annually, a gap of $6 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IBDS currently yields 4.31% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IBDS and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1159 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, IBDS or VYM?
IBDS has an expense ratio of 0.10% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $6 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IBDS or VYM?
Over the past year IBDS returned +3.74% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), IBDS annualized +1.85% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IBDS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.6% for IBDS. Worst drawdown: IBDS -16.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IBDS and VYM?
IBDS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IBDS and VYM?
IBDS and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1159 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IBDS or VYM?
IBDS yields 4.31% while VYM yields 2.86%, so IBDS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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