FGSM vs VYM
FGSM vs VYM
Frontier Asset Global Small Cap Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. FGSM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | FGSM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.82% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $50M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.28% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +18.80% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +31.79% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 11.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Frontier Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 19, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FGSM vs VYM Performance
Frontier Asset Global Small Cap Equity ETF (FGSM) is a ETF from Frontier Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year FGSM returned +31.79% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, FGSM is up 18.80% 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 11.8% for FGSM. 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 -17.7% for FGSM 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 0.83. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FGSM charges 0.82% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $82 vs $4 annually, a gap of $78 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FGSM currently yields 1.28% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FGSM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 564 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, FGSM or VYM?
FGSM has an expense ratio of 0.82% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $78 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FGSM or VYM?
Over the past year FGSM returned +31.79% vs +26.12% for VYM, so FGSM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), FGSM annualized +26.02% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FGSM or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.8% for FGSM. Worst drawdown: FGSM -17.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FGSM and VYM?
FGSM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.83, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FGSM and VYM?
FGSM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 564 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FGSM or VYM?
FGSM yields 1.28% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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