PFUT vs VYM
Putnam Sustainable Future 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | PFUT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.64% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 72 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.20% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.40% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.99% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.47% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Putnam Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 25, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PFUT vs VYM Performance
Putnam Sustainable Future ETF (PFUT) is a ETF from Putnam Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PFUT returned +4.40% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, PFUT is up 1.20% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, PFUT compounded at +10.99% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.47% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs +0.61%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PFUT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.0% 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 -44.9% for PFUT 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PFUT charges 0.64% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $64 vs $4 annually, a gap of $60 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PFUT currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PFUT and VYM share 6 holdings out of 620 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PFUT or VYM?
PFUT has an expense ratio of 0.64% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $60 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PFUT or VYM?
Over the past year PFUT returned +4.40% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), PFUT annualized +0.61% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PFUT or VYM?
PFUT has been the more volatile fund at 20.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: PFUT -44.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PFUT and VYM?
PFUT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PFUT and VYM?
PFUT and VYM share 6 common holdings with a 2.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 620 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PFUT or VYM?
PFUT yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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