KCAI vs VYM
KraneShares China Alpha Index ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. KCAI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KCAI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 32.81% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +6.72% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.74% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -26.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | KraneShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 28, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KCAI vs VYM Performance
KraneShares China Alpha Index ETF (KCAI) is a ETF from KraneShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KCAI returned +34.74% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, KCAI is up 6.72% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KCAI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.0% 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 -26.6% for KCAI 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 0.23. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KCAI charges 0.79% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $79 vs $4 annually, a gap of $75 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KCAI currently yields 32.81% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KCAI and VYM share 0 holdings out of 643 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, KCAI or VYM?
KCAI has an expense ratio of 0.79% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $75 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KCAI or VYM?
Over the past year KCAI returned +34.74% vs +23.85% for VYM, so KCAI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), KCAI annualized +35.34% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KCAI or VYM?
KCAI has been the more volatile fund at 17.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KCAI -26.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KCAI and VYM?
KCAI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.23, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KCAI and VYM?
KCAI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 643 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KCAI or VYM?
KCAI yields 32.81% while VYM yields 2.24%, so KCAI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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