IMOM vs VYM
IMOM vs VYM
Alpha Architect International Quantitative Momentum 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 | IMOM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $155M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.24% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 56 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +7.50% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.95% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.54% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.34% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 22, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IMOM vs VYM Performance
Alpha Architect International Quantitative Momentum ETF (IMOM) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IMOM returned +23.95% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, IMOM is up 7.50% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, IMOM compounded at +21.54% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.34% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +6.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IMOM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.1% 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 -45.7% for IMOM 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMOM charges 0.38% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $4 annually, a gap of $34 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMOM currently yields 2.24% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IMOM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 609 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, IMOM or VYM?
IMOM has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $34 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMOM or VYM?
Over the past year IMOM returned +23.95% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), IMOM annualized +6.91% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMOM or VYM?
IMOM has been the more volatile fund at 18.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IMOM -45.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IMOM and VYM?
IMOM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IMOM and VYM?
IMOM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 609 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMOM or VYM?
IMOM yields 2.24% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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