CPLS vs VYM
CPLS vs VYM
AB Core Plus 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 | CPLS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $211M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.70% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 810 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.51% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.84% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -4.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | AllianceBernstein L.P. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 13, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CPLS vs VYM Performance
AB Core Plus Bond ETF (CPLS) is a ETF from AllianceBernstein L.P. and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CPLS returned +1.84% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, CPLS is down 0.51% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 4.2% for CPLS. 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 -4.1% for CPLS 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 0.58. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CPLS charges 0.30% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $4 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CPLS currently yields 4.70% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CPLS and VYM share 0 holdings out of 958 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, CPLS or VYM?
CPLS has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CPLS or VYM?
Over the past year CPLS returned +1.84% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), CPLS annualized +3.66% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CPLS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 4.2% for CPLS. Worst drawdown: CPLS -4.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CPLS and VYM?
CPLS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.58, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CPLS and VYM?
CPLS and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 958 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CPLS or VYM?
CPLS yields 4.70% while VYM yields 2.86%, so CPLS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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