IGF vs VYM
iShares Global Infrastructure 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IGF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.37% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $10.6B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.88% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 98 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +6.35% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.45% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.32% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.71% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -59.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 10, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IGF vs VYM Performance
iShares Global Infrastructure ETF (IGF) 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 IGF returned +10.45% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, IGF is up 6.35% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, IGF compounded at +15.32% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.71% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs +2.20%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IGF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -59.5% for IGF 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IGF charges 0.37% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $37 vs $4 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IGF currently yields 2.88% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IGF and VYM share 16 holdings out of 666 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IGF or VYM?
IGF has an expense ratio of 0.37% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IGF or VYM?
Over the past year IGF returned +10.45% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), IGF annualized +2.20% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IGF or VYM?
IGF has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IGF -59.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IGF and VYM?
IGF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IGF and VYM?
IGF and VYM share 16 common holdings with a 4.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 666 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IGF or VYM?
IGF yields 2.88% while VYM yields 2.24%, so IGF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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