JXI vs VYM
iShares Global Utilities 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | JXI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.37% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $308M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.43% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 83 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +5.73% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.93% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.78% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.34% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -52.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 12, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
JXI vs VYM Performance
iShares Global Utilities ETF (JXI) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JXI returned +10.93% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, JXI is up 5.73% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, JXI compounded at +16.78% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.34% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs +3.38%. 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 14.5% for JXI. 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 -52.9% for JXI 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JXI charges 0.37% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $37 vs $4 annually, a gap of $33 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JXI currently yields 2.43% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
JXI and VYM share 28 holdings out of 641 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, JXI or VYM?
JXI has an expense ratio of 0.37% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $33 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JXI or VYM?
Over the past year JXI returned +10.93% vs +22.16% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), JXI annualized +3.38% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JXI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 14.5% for JXI. Worst drawdown: JXI -52.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both JXI and VYM?
JXI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JXI and VYM?
JXI and VYM share 28 common holdings with a 5.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 641 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JXI or VYM?
JXI yields 2.43% while VYM yields 2.24%, so JXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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