SQLT vs VYM
iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Quality Factor ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | SQLT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.19% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 513 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +10.91% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 31, 2026 | Nov 10, 2006 |
SQLT vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI USA Small-Cap Quality Factor ETF (SQLT) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, SQLT is up 10.91% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -4.3% for SQLT 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
SQLT charges 0.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $4 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, SQLT currently yields 0.19% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
SQLT and VYM share 115 holdings out of 977 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.6% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, SQLT or VYM?
SQLT has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
What is the holdings overlap between SQLT and VYM?
SQLT and VYM share 115 common holdings with a 2.6% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 977 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, SQLT or VYM?
SQLT yields 0.19% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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