IQM vs VYM
IQM vs VYM
Franklin Intelligent Machines ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. IQM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IQM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $97M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 78 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +20.98% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.66% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +32.10% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +16.72% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 28.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 25, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IQM vs VYM Performance
Franklin Intelligent Machines ETF (IQM) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IQM returned +34.66% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, IQM is up 20.98% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, IQM compounded at +32.10% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +16.72% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, IQM has the edge at +26.05% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IQM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 28.6% 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 -44.9% for IQM 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IQM charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IQM currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IQM and VYM share 1 holdings out of 571 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in IQM | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADI | 0.08% | 0.77% | 0.69% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IQM or VYM?
IQM has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IQM or VYM?
Over the past year IQM returned +34.66% vs +26.12% for VYM, so IQM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), IQM annualized +26.05% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IQM or VYM?
IQM has been the more volatile fund at 28.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IQM -44.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IQM and VYM?
IQM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IQM and VYM?
IQM and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 571 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IQM or VYM?
IQM yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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