BNDX vs VYM
BNDX vs VYM
Vanguard Total International Bond ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. BNDX offers more diversification with 1269 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BNDX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.07% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $83.0B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.45% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 13,626 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +0.66% | +15.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.14% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.21% | +18.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.04% | +12.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 31, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BNDX vs VYM Performance
Vanguard Total International Bond ETF (BNDX) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BNDX returned +1.14% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, BNDX is up 0.66% versus a gain of 15.57% for VYM.
Over three years, BNDX compounded at +4.21% per year against +18.02% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.04% and +12.71% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +1.10%. 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 4.1% for BNDX. 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 -17.2% for BNDX 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 0.34. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BNDX charges 0.07% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $7 vs $4 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BNDX currently yields 4.45% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BNDX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1827 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, BNDX or VYM?
BNDX has an expense ratio of 0.07% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BNDX or VYM?
Over the past year BNDX returned +1.14% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), BNDX annualized +1.10% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BNDX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 4.1% for BNDX. Worst drawdown: BNDX -17.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BNDX and VYM?
BNDX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.34, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BNDX and VYM?
BNDX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1827 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BNDX or VYM?
BNDX yields 4.45% while VYM yields 2.86%, so BNDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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