ROBO vs VYM
ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. ROBO delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ROBO | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.35% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 78 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +19.87% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +33.12% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.86% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +5.01% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 21.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -43.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Robo Global | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 22, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ROBO vs VYM Performance
ROBO Global Robotics and Automation Index ETF (ROBO) is a ETF from Robo Global and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ROBO returned +33.12% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, ROBO is up 19.87% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, ROBO compounded at +15.86% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +5.01% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, ROBO has the edge at +10.09% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ROBO has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.6% 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 -43.6% for ROBO 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 0.75. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ROBO charges 0.95% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $4 annually, a gap of $91 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ROBO currently yields 0.35% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
ROBO and VYM share 4 holdings out of 631 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ROBO or VYM?
ROBO has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $91 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ROBO or VYM?
Over the past year ROBO returned +33.12% vs +25.03% for VYM, so ROBO leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), ROBO annualized +10.09% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ROBO or VYM?
ROBO has been the more volatile fund at 21.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ROBO -43.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ROBO and VYM?
ROBO and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.75, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ROBO and VYM?
ROBO and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 1.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 631 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ROBO or VYM?
ROBO yields 0.35% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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