IFV vs VYM
First Trust Dorsey Wright International Focus 5 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 | IFV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.14% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $225M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.75% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +4.03% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +11.93% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.08% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.26% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -51.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 22, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IFV vs VYM Performance
First Trust Dorsey Wright International Focus 5 ETF (IFV) 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 IFV returned +11.93% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, IFV is up 4.03% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, IFV compounded at +15.08% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.26% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +3.18%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IFV has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.4% 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 -51.2% for IFV 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IFV charges 1.14% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $114 vs $4 annually, a gap of $110 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IFV currently yields 1.75% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IFV and VYM share 0 holdings out of 563 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, IFV or VYM?
IFV has an expense ratio of 1.14% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $110 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IFV or VYM?
Over the past year IFV returned +11.93% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), IFV annualized +3.18% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IFV or VYM?
IFV has been the more volatile fund at 17.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IFV -51.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IFV and VYM?
IFV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IFV and VYM?
IFV and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 563 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IFV or VYM?
IFV yields 1.75% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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