NPCT vs VYM
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund 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 | NPCT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.38% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | - | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.27% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 131 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +3.03% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.43% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.98% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -3.16% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -46.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 27, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NPCT vs VYM Performance
Nuveen Core Plus Impact Fund (NPCT) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NPCT returned +0.43% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, NPCT is up 3.03% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, NPCT compounded at +11.98% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -3.16% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs -3.04%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NPCT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.8% 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 -46.8% for NPCT 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NPCT charges 1.38% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $138 vs $4 annually, a gap of $134 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NPCT currently yields 11.27% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
NPCT and VYM share 1 holdings out of 563 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in NPCT | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| JPM:US | 0.64% | 3.36% | 2.72% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NPCT or VYM?
NPCT has an expense ratio of 1.38% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $134 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NPCT or VYM?
Over the past year NPCT returned +0.43% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), NPCT annualized -3.04% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NPCT or VYM?
NPCT has been the more volatile fund at 16.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: NPCT -46.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NPCT and VYM?
NPCT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NPCT and VYM?
NPCT and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 563 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NPCT or VYM?
NPCT yields 11.27% while VYM yields 2.86%, so NPCT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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