RODE vs VYM
Hartford Multifactor Diversified International 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 | RODE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $17M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.06% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 317 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +0.73% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.70% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.26% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.23% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | May 10, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
RODE vs VYM Performance
Hartford Multifactor Diversified International ETF (RODE) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year RODE returned -0.70% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, RODE is up 0.73% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, RODE compounded at +7.26% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.23% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.60%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
RODE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.4% 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 -36.7% for RODE 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
RODE charges 0.29% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $4 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, RODE currently yields 6.06% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, RODE or VYM?
RODE has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, RODE or VYM?
Over the past year RODE returned -0.70% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), RODE annualized +4.60% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, RODE or VYM?
RODE has been the more volatile fund at 15.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: RODE -36.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both RODE and VYM?
RODE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, RODE or VYM?
RODE yields 6.06% while VYM yields 2.86%, so RODE currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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