IWFG vs VYM
NYLI Winslow Focused Large Cap Growth 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 | IWFG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.46% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $59M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.58% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.58% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +22.13% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | New York Life Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 22, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IWFG vs VYM Performance
NYLI Winslow Focused Large Cap Growth ETF (IWFG) is a ETF from New York Life Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IWFG returned +5.58% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, IWFG is up 3.58% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, IWFG compounded at +22.13% per year against +18.43% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, IWFG has the edge at +22.62% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IWFG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.4% 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 -22.0% for IWFG 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IWFG charges 0.46% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $46 vs $4 annually, a gap of $42 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IWFG currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IWFG and VYM share 4 holdings out of 582 unique holdings combined, representing a 6.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IWFG or VYM?
IWFG has an expense ratio of 0.46% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $42 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IWFG or VYM?
Over the past year IWFG returned +5.58% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), IWFG annualized +22.62% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IWFG or VYM?
IWFG has been the more volatile fund at 18.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IWFG -22.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IWFG and VYM?
IWFG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IWFG and VYM?
IWFG and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 6.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 582 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IWFG or VYM?
IWFG yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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