IQSI vs VYM
NYLI Candriam International Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. IQSI offers more diversification with 648 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | IQSI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $275M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.69% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 648 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +12.61% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.05% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.46% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.73% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -31.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | INDEXIQ ETF TRUST | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 17, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IQSI vs VYM Performance
NYLI Candriam International Equity ETF (IQSI) is a ETF from INDEXIQ ETF TRUST and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IQSI returned +19.05% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, IQSI is up 12.61% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, IQSI compounded at +17.46% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.73% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, IQSI has the edge at +9.48% annualized vs +7.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IQSI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -31.9% for IQSI 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IQSI charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IQSI currently yields 2.69% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IQSI and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1163 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in IQSI | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIG:LN | 0.06% | 0.01% | 0.05% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IQSI or VYM?
IQSI has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IQSI or VYM?
Over the past year IQSI returned +19.05% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), IQSI annualized +9.48% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IQSI or VYM?
IQSI has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IQSI -31.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IQSI and VYM?
IQSI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IQSI and VYM?
IQSI and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1163 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IQSI or VYM?
IQSI yields 2.69% while VYM yields 2.24%, so IQSI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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