NULG vs VYM
Nuveen ESG Large-Cap 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 | NULG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.26% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.8B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.10% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 71 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +16.45% | +14.66% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.30% | +22.16% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.23% | +18.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.24% | +12.18% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 13, 2016 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NULG vs VYM Performance
Nuveen ESG Large-Cap Growth ETF (NULG) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NULG returned +18.30% while VYM returned +22.16%. Year to date, NULG is up 16.45% versus a gain of 14.66% for VYM.
Over three years, NULG compounded at +23.23% per year against +18.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.24% and +12.18% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, NULG has the edge at +18.62% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NULG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.8% 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 -36.2% for NULG 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NULG charges 0.26% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $26 vs $4 annually, a gap of $22 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NULG currently yields 0.10% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
NULG and VYM share 8 holdings out of 664 unique holdings combined, representing a 10.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NULG or VYM?
NULG has an expense ratio of 0.26% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $22 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NULG or VYM?
Over the past year NULG returned +18.30% vs +22.16% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), NULG annualized +18.62% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NULG or VYM?
NULG has been the more volatile fund at 18.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: NULG -36.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NULG and VYM?
NULG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NULG and VYM?
NULG and VYM share 8 common holdings with a 10.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 664 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NULG or VYM?
NULG yields 0.10% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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