KXI vs VYM
iShares Global Consumer Staples 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 | KXI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.38% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.1B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.30% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 112 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +7.44% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.36% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.55% | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.52% | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 12.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 12, 2006 | Nov 10, 2006 |
KXI vs VYM Performance
iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (KXI) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KXI returned +6.36% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, KXI is up 7.44% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Over three years, KXI compounded at +7.55% per year against +19.14% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.52% and +12.45% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.06% annualized vs +5.82%. 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 12.7% for KXI. 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 -43.9% for KXI 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
KXI charges 0.38% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $38 vs $4 annually, a gap of $34 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KXI currently yields 2.30% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
KXI and VYM share 27 holdings out of 670 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, KXI or VYM?
KXI has an expense ratio of 0.38% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $34 per year of difference.
Which performed better, KXI or VYM?
Over the past year KXI returned +6.36% vs +23.85% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), KXI annualized +5.82% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, KXI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 12.7% for KXI. Worst drawdown: KXI -43.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both KXI and VYM?
KXI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between KXI and VYM?
KXI and VYM share 27 common holdings with a 7.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 670 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, KXI or VYM?
KXI yields 2.30% while VYM yields 2.24%, so KXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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