QYLD vs VYM
Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | QYLD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.60% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $8.3B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 11.90% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 105 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +10.49% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.73% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.66% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +8.18% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Global X by mirae Asset | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
QYLD vs VYM Performance
Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call ETF (QYLD) 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 QYLD returned +22.73% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, QYLD is up 10.49% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, QYLD compounded at +14.66% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +8.18% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +2.84%. 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 11.0% for QYLD. 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 -30.7% for QYLD 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
QYLD charges 0.60% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $60 vs $4 annually, a gap of $56 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, QYLD currently yields 11.90% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
QYLD and VYM share 28 holdings out of 677 unique holdings combined, representing a 16.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, QYLD or VYM?
QYLD has an expense ratio of 0.60% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $56 per year of difference.
Which performed better, QYLD or VYM?
Over the past year QYLD returned +22.73% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), QYLD annualized +2.84% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, QYLD or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.0% for QYLD. Worst drawdown: QYLD -30.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both QYLD and VYM?
QYLD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between QYLD and VYM?
QYLD and VYM share 28 common holdings with a 16.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 677 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, QYLD or VYM?
QYLD yields 11.90% while VYM yields 2.24%, so QYLD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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