NSI vs VYM
National Security Emerging Markets Index ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. NSI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | NSI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $42M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.23% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 105 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +10.39% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +27.59% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | National Security Index | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 6, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NSI vs VYM Performance
National Security Emerging Markets Index ETF (NSI) is a ETF from National Security Index and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NSI returned +27.59% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, NSI is up 10.39% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.0% for NSI. 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 -16.6% for NSI 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NSI charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NSI currently yields 1.23% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
NSI and VYM share 4 holdings out of 698 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NSI or VYM?
NSI has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NSI or VYM?
Over the past year NSI returned +27.59% vs +23.48% for VYM, so NSI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), NSI annualized +20.22% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NSI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.0% for NSI. Worst drawdown: NSI -16.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NSI and VYM?
NSI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NSI and VYM?
NSI and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 698 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NSI or VYM?
NSI yields 1.23% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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