JOF vs VYM
Japan Smaller Capitalization Fund Inc vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. JOF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | JOF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.47% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $240M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 15.92% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 91 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +20.79% | +14.95% | |
| 1Y Return | +32.99% | +21.14% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +28.16% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.77% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 26.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -70.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nomura Asset Management Co Ltd | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 21, 1990 | Nov 10, 2006 |
JOF vs VYM Performance
Japan Smaller Capitalization Fund Inc (JOF) is a ETF from Nomura Asset Management Co Ltd and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JOF returned +32.99% while VYM returned +21.14%. Year to date, JOF is up 20.79% versus a gain of 14.95% for VYM.
Over three years, JOF compounded at +28.16% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.77% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs +1.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
JOF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 26.5% 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 -70.0% for JOF 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JOF charges 1.47% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $147 vs $4 annually, a gap of $143 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JOF currently yields 15.92% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
JOF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 694 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, JOF or VYM?
JOF has an expense ratio of 1.47% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $143 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JOF or VYM?
Over the past year JOF returned +32.99% vs +21.14% for VYM, so JOF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), JOF annualized +1.91% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JOF or VYM?
JOF has been the more volatile fund at 26.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: JOF -70.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both JOF and VYM?
JOF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JOF and VYM?
JOF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 694 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JOF or VYM?
JOF yields 15.92% while VYM yields 2.24%, so JOF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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