APLU vs VYM
APLU vs VYM
Allspring Core Plus 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 | APLU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.31% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $421M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.42% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 549 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.68% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.60% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 3.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Allspring Global Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 4, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
APLU vs VYM Performance
Allspring Core Plus ETF (APLU) is a ETF from Allspring Global Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year APLU returned +2.60% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, APLU is down 0.68% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 3.4% for APLU. 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 -3.2% for APLU 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 0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
APLU charges 0.31% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $31 vs $4 annually, a gap of $27 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, APLU currently yields 5.42% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
APLU and VYM share 0 holdings out of 805 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, APLU or VYM?
APLU has an expense ratio of 0.31% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $27 per year of difference.
Which performed better, APLU or VYM?
Over the past year APLU returned +2.60% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), APLU annualized +2.68% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, APLU or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 3.4% for APLU. Worst drawdown: APLU -3.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both APLU and VYM?
APLU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between APLU and VYM?
APLU and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 805 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, APLU or VYM?
APLU yields 5.42% while VYM yields 2.86%, so APLU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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