QLVE vs VYM
FlexShares Emerging Markets Quality Low Volatility Index Fund 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 | QLVE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $17M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.64% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 184 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +11.26% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.88% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +16.63% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.46% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Flexshares Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 15, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
QLVE vs VYM Performance
FlexShares Emerging Markets Quality Low Volatility Index Fund (QLVE) is a ETF from Flexshares Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QLVE returned +21.88% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, QLVE is up 11.26% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, QLVE compounded at +16.63% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.46% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +6.25%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.2% for QLVE. 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 -30.0% for QLVE 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QLVE charges 0.18% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $4 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QLVE currently yields 2.64% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
QLVE and VYM share 0 holdings out of 697 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, QLVE or VYM?
QLVE has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QLVE or VYM?
Over the past year QLVE returned +21.88% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), QLVE annualized +6.25% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QLVE or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.2% for QLVE. Worst drawdown: QLVE -30.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both QLVE and VYM?
QLVE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QLVE and VYM?
QLVE and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 697 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QLVE or VYM?
QLVE yields 2.64% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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