VYM vs WSML
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF vs iShares MSCI World Small-Cap ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. WSML delivered stronger 1-year returns. WSML offers more diversification with 1555 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VYM | WSML | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.04% | 0.30% | |
| AUM | $79.0B | $654M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.86% | 2.76% | |
| Holdings | 568 | 3,540 | |
| YTD Return | +16.16% | +17.27% | |
| 1Y Return | +26.05% | +29.74% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.43% | - | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.21% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 13.0% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -10.7% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | iShares by BlackRock (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 10, 2006 | Apr 1, 2025 |
VYM vs WSML Performance
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and iShares MSCI World Small-Cap ETF (WSML) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US). Over the past year VYM returned +26.05% while WSML returned +29.74%. Year to date, VYM is up 16.16% versus a gain of 17.27% for WSML.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 13.0% for WSML. 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 -58.8% for VYM and -10.7% for WSML. 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VYM charges 0.04% per year while WSML charges 0.30%. On a $10,000 position that is $4 vs $30 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VYM currently yields 2.86% against 2.76% for WSML.
Holdings Overlap
VYM and WSML share 204 holdings out of 1909 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VYM or WSML?
VYM has an expense ratio of 0.04% while WSML charges 0.30%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VYM or WSML?
Over the past year VYM returned +26.05% vs +29.74% for WSML, so WSML leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), VYM annualized +7.09% vs +37.08% for WSML. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VYM or WSML?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.0% for WSML. Worst drawdown: VYM -58.8% vs WSML -10.7%.
Should I hold both VYM and WSML?
VYM and WSML have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VYM and WSML?
VYM and WSML share 204 common holdings with a 5.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1909 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VYM or WSML?
VYM yields 2.86% while WSML yields 2.76%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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