TRFK vs VYM
Pacer Data and Digital Revolution ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. TRFK delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | TRFK | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $948M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.01% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 85 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +51.11% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +55.65% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +47.37% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 30.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -29.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Pacer ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 8, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
TRFK vs VYM Performance
Pacer Data and Digital Revolution ETF (TRFK) is a ETF from Pacer ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year TRFK returned +55.65% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, TRFK is up 51.11% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, TRFK compounded at +47.37% per year against +18.54% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, TRFK has the edge at +39.29% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
TRFK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 30.5% 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 -29.1% for TRFK 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 0.39. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
TRFK charges 0.49% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $4 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, TRFK currently yields 0.01% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
TRFK and VYM share 8 holdings out of 631 unique holdings combined, representing a 9.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, TRFK or VYM?
TRFK has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, TRFK or VYM?
Over the past year TRFK returned +55.65% vs +25.03% for VYM, so TRFK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), TRFK annualized +39.29% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, TRFK or VYM?
TRFK has been the more volatile fund at 30.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: TRFK -29.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both TRFK and VYM?
TRFK and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.39, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between TRFK and VYM?
TRFK and VYM share 8 common holdings with a 9.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 631 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, TRFK or VYM?
TRFK yields 0.01% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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