QPFF vs VYM
American Century Quality 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | QPFF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.32% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $40M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.03% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +0.90% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.38% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.39% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -15.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | American Century Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 16, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
QPFF vs VYM Performance
American Century Quality Preferred ETF (QPFF) is a ETF from American Century Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year QPFF returned +0.38% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, QPFF is up 0.90% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, QPFF compounded at +5.39% per year against +18.29% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs +2.87%. 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 8.9% for QPFF. 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 -15.2% for QPFF 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QPFF charges 0.32% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $32 vs $4 annually, a gap of $28 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QPFF currently yields 6.03% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QPFF or VYM?
QPFF has an expense ratio of 0.32% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $28 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QPFF or VYM?
Over the past year QPFF returned +0.38% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), QPFF annualized +2.87% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QPFF or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 8.9% for QPFF. Worst drawdown: QPFF -15.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both QPFF and VYM?
QPFF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, QPFF or VYM?
QPFF yields 6.03% while VYM yields 2.86%, so QPFF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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