PGJ vs VYM
Invesco Golden Dragon China 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 | PGJ | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.70% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $94M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.40% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 74 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -14.64% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -10.44% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -1.46% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -9.61% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -78.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Invesco (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 9, 2004 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PGJ vs VYM Performance
Invesco Golden Dragon China ETF (PGJ) is a ETF from Invesco (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PGJ returned -10.44% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, PGJ is down 14.64% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, PGJ compounded at -1.46% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -9.61% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +3.19%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
PGJ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.2% 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 -78.4% for PGJ 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PGJ charges 0.70% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $70 vs $4 annually, a gap of $66 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PGJ currently yields 3.40% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PGJ and VYM share 0 holdings out of 630 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, PGJ or VYM?
PGJ has an expense ratio of 0.70% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $66 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PGJ or VYM?
Over the past year PGJ returned -10.44% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), PGJ annualized +3.19% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PGJ or VYM?
PGJ has been the more volatile fund at 30.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: PGJ -78.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PGJ and VYM?
PGJ and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PGJ and VYM?
PGJ and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 630 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PGJ or VYM?
PGJ yields 3.40% while VYM yields 2.86%, so PGJ currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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