KBUF vs VYM
KraneShares 90% KWEB Defined Outcome January 2026 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 | KBUF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.97% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.38% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 4 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -15.91% | +14.95% | |
| 1Y Return | -11.89% | +21.14% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | KraneShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 8, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KBUF vs VYM Performance
KraneShares 90% KWEB Defined Outcome January 2026 ETF (KBUF) is a ETF from KraneShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KBUF returned -11.89% while VYM returned +21.14%. Year to date, KBUF is down 15.91% versus a gain of 14.95% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.1% for KBUF. 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 -21.1% for KBUF 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 0.15. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KBUF charges 0.97% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $97 vs $4 annually, a gap of $93 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KBUF currently yields 8.38% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KBUF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 604 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, KBUF or VYM?
KBUF has an expense ratio of 0.97% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $93 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KBUF or VYM?
Over the past year KBUF returned -11.89% vs +21.14% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), KBUF annualized +6.85% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KBUF or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.1% for KBUF. Worst drawdown: KBUF -21.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KBUF and VYM?
KBUF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.15, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KBUF and VYM?
KBUF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KBUF or VYM?
KBUF yields 8.38% while VYM yields 2.24%, so KBUF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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