MMLG vs VYM
First Trust Multi-Manager Large Growth 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 | MMLG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.85% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $95M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 75 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +5.70% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.59% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.54% | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.42% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 20, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MMLG vs VYM Performance
First Trust Multi-Manager Large Growth ETF (MMLG) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MMLG returned +15.59% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, MMLG is up 5.70% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Over three years, MMLG compounded at +21.54% per year against +19.22% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.42% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, MMLG has the edge at +11.29% annualized vs +7.04%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MMLG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.3% 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 -46.0% for MMLG 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 0.60. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MMLG charges 0.85% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $85 vs $4 annually, a gap of $81 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MMLG currently yields 0.00% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MMLG and VYM share 10 holdings out of 669 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MMLG or VYM?
MMLG has an expense ratio of 0.85% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $81 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MMLG or VYM?
Over the past year MMLG returned +15.59% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), MMLG annualized +11.29% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MMLG or VYM?
MMLG has been the more volatile fund at 21.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MMLG -46.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MMLG and VYM?
MMLG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.60, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MMLG and VYM?
MMLG and VYM share 10 common holdings with a 7.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 669 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MMLG or VYM?
MMLG yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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