KDEF vs VYM
PLUS Korea Defense Industry Index 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KDEF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $100M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.56% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 24 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -1.92% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.48% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 57.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -48.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | PLUS ETF | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 5, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KDEF vs VYM Performance
PLUS Korea Defense Industry Index ETF (KDEF) is a ETF from PLUS ETF and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KDEF returned +17.48% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, KDEF is down 1.92% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KDEF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 57.8% 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 -48.6% for KDEF 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 0.34. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KDEF charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KDEF currently yields 5.56% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KDEF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 578 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, KDEF or VYM?
KDEF has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KDEF or VYM?
Over the past year KDEF returned +17.48% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), KDEF annualized +69.89% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KDEF or VYM?
KDEF has been the more volatile fund at 57.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KDEF -48.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KDEF and VYM?
KDEF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.34, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KDEF and VYM?
KDEF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 578 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KDEF or VYM?
KDEF yields 5.56% while VYM yields 2.86%, so KDEF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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