REFA vs VYM
Columbia Research Enhanced International Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | REFA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.32% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $6M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.03% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 215 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +15.15% | +15.36% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +21.96% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.85% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -11.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Columbia Threadneedle Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 11, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
REFA vs VYM Performance
Columbia Research Enhanced International Equity ETF (REFA) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, REFA is up 15.15% versus a gain of 15.36% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -11.2% for REFA and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
Fees and Cost Over Time
REFA 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, REFA currently yields 0.03% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
REFA and VYM share 0 holdings out of 813 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, REFA or VYM?
REFA 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.
What is the holdings overlap between REFA and VYM?
REFA and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 813 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, REFA or VYM?
REFA yields 0.03% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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