JMM vs VYM
Nuveen Multi-Market Income Fund 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 | JMM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.58% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | - | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.35% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 310 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.37% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.52% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.66% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.36% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 30, 1988 | Nov 10, 2006 |
JMM vs VYM Performance
Nuveen Multi-Market Income Fund (JMM) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JMM returned -3.52% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, JMM is down 0.37% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, JMM compounded at +5.66% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.36% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs -0.39%. 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 9.9% for JMM. 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 -53.8% for JMM 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 0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JMM charges 1.58% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $158 vs $4 annually, a gap of $154 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JMM currently yields 5.35% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
JMM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 573 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, JMM or VYM?
JMM has an expense ratio of 1.58% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $154 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JMM or VYM?
Over the past year JMM returned -3.52% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), JMM annualized -0.39% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JMM or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 9.9% for JMM. Worst drawdown: JMM -53.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both JMM and VYM?
JMM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JMM and VYM?
JMM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 573 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JMM or VYM?
JMM yields 5.35% while VYM yields 2.86%, so JMM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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