ICLN vs VYM
iShares Global Clean Energy ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. ICLN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ICLN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.3B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.90% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 152 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +6.72% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +35.93% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.54% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.19% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -88.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 24, 2008 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ICLN vs VYM Performance
iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN) 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 ICLN returned +35.93% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, ICLN is up 6.72% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, ICLN compounded at +4.54% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -3.19% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 18-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs -5.27%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ICLN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.9% 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 -88.3% for ICLN 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ICLN charges 0.39% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $4 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ICLN currently yields 0.90% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
ICLN and VYM share 1 holdings out of 662 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in ICLN | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| CWEN | 1.58% | 0.01% | 1.57% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ICLN or VYM?
ICLN has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ICLN or VYM?
Over the past year ICLN returned +35.93% vs +26.05% for VYM, so ICLN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (18 years), ICLN annualized -5.27% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ICLN or VYM?
ICLN has been the more volatile fund at 30.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ICLN -88.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ICLN and VYM?
ICLN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ICLN and VYM?
ICLN and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 662 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ICLN or VYM?
ICLN yields 0.90% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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