FAI vs VYM
FAI vs VYM
First Trust Bloomberg Artificial Intelligence ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FAI delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FAI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $153M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 53 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +29.49% | +15.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +44.15% | +25.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +17.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 31.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -27.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 20, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FAI vs VYM Performance
First Trust Bloomberg Artificial Intelligence ETF (FAI) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FAI returned +44.15% while VYM returned +25.56%. Year to date, FAI is up 29.49% versus a gain of 15.20% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
FAI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 31.4% 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 -27.8% for FAI 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 0.35. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FAI charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FAI currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FAI and VYM share 3 holdings out of 605 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, FAI or VYM?
FAI has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FAI or VYM?
Over the past year FAI returned +44.15% vs +25.56% for VYM, so FAI leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FAI annualized +39.92% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FAI or VYM?
FAI has been the more volatile fund at 31.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: FAI -27.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FAI and VYM?
FAI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.35, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FAI and VYM?
FAI and VYM share 3 common holdings with a 7.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 605 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FAI or VYM?
FAI yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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