KEAT vs VYM
Keating Active ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. KEAT delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KEAT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $119M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.66% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.50% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.73% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -10.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Keating Investment Counselors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 27, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KEAT vs VYM Performance
Keating Active ETF (KEAT) is a ETF from Keating Investment Counselors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KEAT returned +24.73% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, KEAT is up 12.50% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 11.9% for KEAT. 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 -10.6% for KEAT 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KEAT charges 0.85% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $4 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KEAT currently yields 2.66% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KEAT and VYM share 7 holdings out of 580 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KEAT or VYM?
KEAT has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KEAT or VYM?
Over the past year KEAT returned +24.73% vs +24.43% for VYM, so KEAT leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), KEAT annualized +15.98% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KEAT or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.9% for KEAT. Worst drawdown: KEAT -10.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KEAT and VYM?
KEAT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KEAT and VYM?
KEAT and VYM share 7 common holdings with a 3.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 580 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KEAT or VYM?
KEAT yields 2.66% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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