IGLD vs VYM
FT Vest Gold Strategy Target Income 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 | IGLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $547M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 21.43% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -8.35% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +12.44% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.59% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.05% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -28.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 2, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IGLD vs VYM Performance
FT Vest Gold Strategy Target Income ETF (IGLD) 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 IGLD returned +12.44% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, IGLD is down 8.35% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, IGLD compounded at +19.59% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.05% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, IGLD has the edge at +11.40% annualized vs +7.10%. 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 13.7% for IGLD. 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 -28.1% for IGLD 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 0.28. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IGLD charges 0.85% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $4 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IGLD currently yields 21.43% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IGLD or VYM?
IGLD has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IGLD or VYM?
Over the past year IGLD returned +12.44% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), IGLD annualized +11.40% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IGLD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.7% for IGLD. Worst drawdown: IGLD -28.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IGLD and VYM?
IGLD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.28, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, IGLD or VYM?
IGLD yields 21.43% while VYM yields 2.24%, so IGLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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