VABS vs VYM
Virtus Newfleet ABS/MBS 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 | VABS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.39% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $112M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.18% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 131 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +2.37% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.56% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.13% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.36% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 9, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
VABS vs VYM Performance
Virtus Newfleet ABS/MBS ETF (VABS) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VABS returned +3.56% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, VABS is up 2.37% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, VABS compounded at +6.13% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.36% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +3.21%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 2.1% for VABS. 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 -7.1% for VABS 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 0.30. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VABS charges 0.39% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $39 vs $4 annually, a gap of $35 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VABS currently yields 5.18% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VABS or VYM?
VABS has an expense ratio of 0.39% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $35 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VABS or VYM?
Over the past year VABS returned +3.56% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), VABS annualized +3.21% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VABS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.1% for VABS. Worst drawdown: VABS -7.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both VABS and VYM?
VABS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.30, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, VABS or VYM?
VABS yields 5.18% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VABS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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