RECS vs VYM
RECS vs VYM
Columbia Research Enhanced Core 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 | RECS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $5.9B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.05% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 368 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +10.57% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.40% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.30% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.77% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -34.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Columbia Threadneedle Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 25, 2019 | Nov 10, 2006 |
RECS vs VYM Performance
Columbia Research Enhanced Core ETF (RECS) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RECS returned +20.40% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, RECS is up 10.57% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, RECS compounded at +21.30% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +13.77% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RECS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -34.3% for RECS 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RECS charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RECS currently yields 1.05% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
RECS and VYM share 141 holdings out of 777 unique holdings combined, representing a 25.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in RECS | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| XOM | 1.85% | 2.83% | 0.98% |
| PG | 2.23% | 1.72% | 0.51% |
| WFC | 1.66% | 1.12% | 0.54% |
| CVX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ABBV | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| C | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| MS | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| CSCO | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| PFE | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| UNP | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings RECS shares with VYM Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RECS or VYM?
RECS has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RECS or VYM?
Over the past year RECS returned +20.40% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), RECS annualized +4.01% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RECS or VYM?
RECS has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: RECS -34.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both RECS and VYM?
RECS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between RECS and VYM?
RECS and VYM share 141 common holdings with a 25.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 777 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, RECS or VYM?
RECS yields 1.05% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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