VEM vs VYM
Virtus Emerging Markets Dividend ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VEM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 54 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +11.98% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | - | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | - | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 3, 2026 | Nov 10, 2006 |
VEM vs VYM Performance
Virtus Emerging Markets Dividend ETF (VEM) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, VEM is up 11.98% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -13.6% for VEM 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
VEM 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, VEM currently yields 2.00% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
VEM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 657 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VEM or VYM?
VEM 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.
What is the holdings overlap between VEM and VYM?
VEM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 657 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VEM or VYM?
VEM yields 2.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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