KFEB vs VYM
Innovator US Small Cap Power Buffer ETF - February 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 | KFEB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $41M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +14.41% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.87% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Innovator ETFs Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 31, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KFEB vs VYM Performance
Innovator US Small Cap Power Buffer ETF - February (KFEB) is a ETF from Innovator ETFs Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KFEB returned +24.87% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, KFEB is up 14.41% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 8.9% for KFEB. 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 -14.2% for KFEB 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KFEB 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, KFEB currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KFEB or VYM?
KFEB 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, KFEB or VYM?
Over the past year KFEB returned +24.87% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), KFEB annualized +16.26% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KFEB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 8.9% for KFEB. Worst drawdown: KFEB -14.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KFEB and VYM?
KFEB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, KFEB or VYM?
KFEB yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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