VFMF vs VYM
Vanguard US Multifactor ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VFMF delivered stronger 1-year returns. VFMF offers more diversification with 593 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VFMF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.18% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $703M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.75% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 597 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +22.07% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +36.87% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.43% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +14.25% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -41.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 13, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
VFMF vs VYM Performance
Vanguard US Multifactor ETF (VFMF) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VFMF returned +36.87% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, VFMF is up 22.07% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, VFMF compounded at +21.43% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +14.25% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VFMF has the edge at +12.67% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VFMF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.6% 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 -41.3% for VFMF 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 0.94. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VFMF charges 0.18% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $18 vs $4 annually, a gap of $14 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VFMF currently yields 1.75% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
VFMF and VYM share 196 holdings out of 955 unique holdings combined, representing a 25.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VFMF or VYM?
VFMF has an expense ratio of 0.18% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $14 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VFMF or VYM?
Over the past year VFMF returned +36.87% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VFMF leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), VFMF annualized +12.67% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VFMF or VYM?
VFMF has been the more volatile fund at 18.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: VFMF -41.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both VFMF and VYM?
VFMF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.94, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between VFMF and VYM?
VFMF and VYM share 196 common holdings with a 25.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 955 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VFMF or VYM?
VFMF yields 1.75% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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