PFFV vs VYM
Global X Variable Rate Preferred 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PFFV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $320M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.12% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 58 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +2.95% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.08% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.63% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.92% | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.0% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 22, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PFFV vs VYM Performance
Global X Variable Rate Preferred ETF (PFFV) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PFFV returned +3.08% while VYM returned +21.39%. Year to date, PFFV is up 2.95% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Over three years, PFFV compounded at +6.63% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +1.92% and +11.98% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.00% annualized vs +4.21%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.5% compared with 8.0% for PFFV. 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 -19.0% for PFFV 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PFFV charges 0.25% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $4 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PFFV currently yields 8.12% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PFFV and VYM share 7 holdings out of 611 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PFFV or VYM?
PFFV has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PFFV or VYM?
Over the past year PFFV returned +3.08% vs +21.39% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), PFFV annualized +4.21% vs +7.00% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PFFV or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.5% annualized versus 8.0% for PFFV. Worst drawdown: PFFV -19.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PFFV and VYM?
PFFV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PFFV and VYM?
PFFV and VYM share 7 common holdings with a 0.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 611 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PFFV or VYM?
PFFV yields 8.12% while VYM yields 2.24%, so PFFV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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