KGRN vs VYM
KraneShares MSCI China Clean Technology 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | KGRN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $53M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.94% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 53 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -14.59% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | -14.36% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -2.22% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -10.66% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 31.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -66.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | KraneShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 12, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KGRN vs VYM Performance
KraneShares MSCI China Clean Technology Index ETF (KGRN) is a ETF from KraneShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KGRN returned -14.36% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, KGRN is down 14.59% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, KGRN compounded at -2.22% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -10.66% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs +0.80%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KGRN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 31.6% 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 -66.2% for KGRN 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 0.26. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KGRN 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, KGRN currently yields 0.94% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KGRN and VYM share 0 holdings out of 607 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, KGRN or VYM?
KGRN 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, KGRN or VYM?
Over the past year KGRN returned -14.36% vs +22.16% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), KGRN annualized +0.80% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KGRN or VYM?
KGRN has been the more volatile fund at 31.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KGRN -66.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KGRN and VYM?
KGRN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.26, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KGRN and VYM?
KGRN and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KGRN or VYM?
KGRN yields 0.94% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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