NWLG vs VYM
Nuveen Winslow Large-Cap Growth ESG 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 | NWLG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $9M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 42 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -22.39% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +7.45% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +13.26% | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -39.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Nuveen | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 4, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NWLG vs VYM Performance
Nuveen Winslow Large-Cap Growth ESG ETF (NWLG) is a ETF from Nuveen and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NWLG returned +7.45% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, NWLG is down 22.39% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Over three years, NWLG compounded at +13.26% per year against +19.22% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.04% annualized vs +3.38%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
NWLG 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 -39.9% for NWLG 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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NWLG charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NWLG currently yields 0.00% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
NWLG and VYM share 5 holdings out of 637 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.7% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, NWLG or VYM?
NWLG has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NWLG or VYM?
Over the past year NWLG returned +7.45% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), NWLG annualized +3.38% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NWLG or VYM?
NWLG has been the more volatile fund at 21.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: NWLG -39.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NWLG and VYM?
NWLG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NWLG and VYM?
NWLG and VYM share 5 common holdings with a 7.7% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 637 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NWLG or VYM?
NWLG yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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