EHI vs VYM
EHI vs VYM
Western Asset Global High Income Fund Inc 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 | EHI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.89% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $193M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 12.92% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 398 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.65% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.54% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.06% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.23% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -66.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 29, 2003 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EHI vs VYM Performance
Western Asset Global High Income Fund Inc (EHI) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EHI returned +1.54% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, EHI is down 0.65% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, EHI compounded at +6.06% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.23% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -1.31%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EHI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.3% 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 -66.1% for EHI 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 0.68. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EHI charges 1.89% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $189 vs $4 annually, a gap of $185 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, EHI currently yields 12.92% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
EHI and VYM share 0 holdings out of 817 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, EHI or VYM?
EHI has an expense ratio of 1.89% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $185 per year of difference.
Which performed better, EHI or VYM?
Over the past year EHI returned +1.54% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), EHI annualized -1.31% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EHI or VYM?
EHI has been the more volatile fund at 16.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EHI -66.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EHI and VYM?
EHI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.68, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between EHI and VYM?
EHI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 817 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, EHI or VYM?
EHI yields 12.92% while VYM yields 2.86%, so EHI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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