BGRN vs VYM
BGRN vs VYM
iShares USD Green Bond 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 | BGRN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $501M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.28% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 322 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +0.09% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.34% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.89% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.16% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 13, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BGRN vs VYM Performance
iShares USD Green Bond ETF (BGRN) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BGRN returned +2.34% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, BGRN is up 0.09% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, BGRN compounded at +4.89% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.16% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +1.48%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 5.5% for BGRN. 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 -19.2% for BGRN 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 0.40. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BGRN charges 0.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $4 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BGRN currently yields 4.28% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BGRN and VYM share 0 holdings out of 770 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, BGRN or VYM?
BGRN has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BGRN or VYM?
Over the past year BGRN returned +2.34% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), BGRN annualized +1.48% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BGRN or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.5% for BGRN. Worst drawdown: BGRN -19.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BGRN and VYM?
BGRN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.40, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BGRN and VYM?
BGRN and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 770 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BGRN or VYM?
BGRN yields 4.28% while VYM yields 2.86%, so BGRN currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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