KWEB vs VYM
KraneShares CSI China Internet 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 | KWEB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.69% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5.4B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.43% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 34 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -24.19% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | -21.75% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.36% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -6.92% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 33.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -80.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | KraneShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 31, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KWEB vs VYM Performance
KraneShares CSI China Internet ETF (KWEB) is a ETF from KraneShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KWEB returned -21.75% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, KWEB is down 24.19% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, KWEB compounded at +2.36% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -6.92% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.10% annualized vs +2.18%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
KWEB has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 33.5% 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 -80.9% for KWEB 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
KWEB charges 0.69% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $4 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KWEB currently yields 7.43% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KWEB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 634 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, KWEB or VYM?
KWEB has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KWEB or VYM?
Over the past year KWEB returned -21.75% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), KWEB annualized +2.18% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KWEB or VYM?
KWEB has been the more volatile fund at 33.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KWEB -80.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KWEB and VYM?
KWEB 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 KWEB and VYM?
KWEB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 634 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KWEB or VYM?
KWEB yields 7.43% while VYM yields 2.24%, so KWEB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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