KONG vs VYM
Formidable Fortress 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 | KONG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.89% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $22M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.36% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 54 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.96% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +11.06% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.09% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.03% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Formidable Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 21, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KONG vs VYM Performance
Formidable Fortress ETF (KONG) is a ETF from Formidable Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KONG returned +11.06% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, KONG is up 8.96% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, KONG compounded at +9.09% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.03% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs +6.19%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 12.4% for KONG. 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 -20.0% for KONG 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KONG charges 0.89% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $89 vs $4 annually, a gap of $85 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KONG currently yields 0.36% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KONG and VYM share 6 holdings out of 584 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KONG or VYM?
KONG has an expense ratio of 0.89% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $85 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KONG or VYM?
Over the past year KONG returned +11.06% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), KONG annualized +6.19% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KONG or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 12.4% for KONG. Worst drawdown: KONG -20.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KONG and VYM?
KONG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KONG and VYM?
KONG and VYM share 6 common holdings with a 3.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 584 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KONG or VYM?
KONG yields 0.36% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.