MEMX vs VYM
Matthews Emerging Markets ex China Active ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. MEMX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MEMX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.79% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $52M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.77% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 90 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +21.74% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +47.06% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.64% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Matthews Asia Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 10, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MEMX vs VYM Performance
Matthews Emerging Markets ex China Active ETF (MEMX) is a ETF from Matthews Asia Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MEMX returned +47.06% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, MEMX is up 21.74% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, MEMX compounded at +23.64% per year against +18.29% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, MEMX has the edge at +20.91% annualized vs +7.08%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MEMX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.5% 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 -19.3% for MEMX 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 0.52. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MEMX 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, MEMX currently yields 3.77% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MEMX and VYM share 1 holdings out of 639 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in MEMX | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAP:BM | 1.10% | 0.10% | 1.00% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MEMX or VYM?
MEMX 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, MEMX or VYM?
Over the past year MEMX returned +47.06% vs +25.99% for VYM, so MEMX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), MEMX annualized +20.91% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MEMX or VYM?
MEMX has been the more volatile fund at 17.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MEMX -19.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MEMX and VYM?
MEMX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.52, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MEMX and VYM?
MEMX and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 639 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MEMX or VYM?
MEMX yields 3.77% while VYM yields 2.86%, so MEMX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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