KEMX vs VYM
KraneShares MSCI Emerging Markets ex China Index ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. KEMX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KEMX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.24% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $127M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.39% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 296 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +30.04% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +55.75% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +26.85% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.68% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -38.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | KraneShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 12, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KEMX vs VYM Performance
KraneShares MSCI Emerging Markets ex China Index ETF (KEMX) is a ETF from KraneShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KEMX returned +55.75% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, KEMX is up 30.04% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, KEMX compounded at +26.85% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.68% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, KEMX has the edge at +12.85% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KEMX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.4% 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 -38.8% for KEMX 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KEMX charges 0.24% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $24 vs $4 annually, a gap of $20 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KEMX currently yields 2.39% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KEMX and VYM share 3 holdings out of 836 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KEMX or VYM?
KEMX has an expense ratio of 0.24% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $20 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KEMX or VYM?
Over the past year KEMX returned +55.75% vs +26.05% for VYM, so KEMX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), KEMX annualized +12.85% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KEMX or VYM?
KEMX has been the more volatile fund at 20.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KEMX -38.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KEMX and VYM?
KEMX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KEMX and VYM?
KEMX and VYM share 3 common holdings with a 0.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 836 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KEMX or VYM?
KEMX yields 2.39% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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