VYM vs ZAP
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF vs Global X US Electrification ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VYM | ZAP | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.04% | 0.50% | |
| AUM | $81.6B | $475M | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.24% | 1.67% | |
| Holdings | 616 | 47 | |
| YTD Return | +14.66% | +9.71% | |
| 1Y Return | +22.16% | +16.61% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.72% | - | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.18% | - | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.6% | 15.1% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.8% | -11.9% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Global X by mirae Asset | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 10, 2006 | Dec 17, 2024 |
VYM vs ZAP Performance
Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Global X US Electrification ETF (ZAP) is a ETF from Global X by mirae Asset. Over the past year VYM returned +22.16% while ZAP returned +16.61%. Year to date, VYM is up 14.66% versus a gain of 9.71% for ZAP.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ZAP has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.1% 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 -58.8% for VYM and -11.9% for ZAP. 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VYM charges 0.04% per year while ZAP charges 0.50%. On a $10,000 position that is $4 vs $50 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VYM currently yields 2.24% against 1.67% for ZAP.
Holdings Overlap
VYM and ZAP share 26 holdings out of 622 unique holdings combined, representing a 4.8% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VYM or ZAP?
VYM has an expense ratio of 0.04% while ZAP charges 0.50%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VYM or ZAP?
Over the past year VYM returned +22.16% vs +16.61% for ZAP, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), VYM annualized +7.01% vs +22.05% for ZAP. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VYM or ZAP?
ZAP has been the more volatile fund at 15.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: VYM -58.8% vs ZAP -11.9%.
Should I hold both VYM and ZAP?
VYM and ZAP have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VYM and ZAP?
VYM and ZAP share 26 common holdings with a 4.8% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 622 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VYM or ZAP?
VYM yields 2.24% while ZAP yields 1.67%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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