FLBL vs VYM
FLBL vs VYM
Franklin Senior Loan 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 | FLBL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $850M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.40% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 262 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -1.92% | +15.45% | |
| 1Y Return | -2.35% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.66% | +17.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +4.48% | +12.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 30, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FLBL vs VYM Performance
Franklin Senior Loan ETF (FLBL) 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 FLBL returned -2.35% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, FLBL is down 1.92% versus a gain of 15.45% for VYM.
Over three years, FLBL compounded at +4.66% per year against +17.96% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +4.48% and +12.54% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.06% annualized vs +4.00%. 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 5.3% for FLBL. 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 -19.5% for FLBL 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 0.59. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FLBL charges 0.45% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $4 annually, a gap of $41 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FLBL currently yields 7.40% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FLBL and VYM share 0 holdings out of 602 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, FLBL or VYM?
FLBL has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $41 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FLBL or VYM?
Over the past year FLBL returned -2.35% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), FLBL annualized +4.00% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FLBL or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.3% for FLBL. Worst drawdown: FLBL -19.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FLBL and VYM?
FLBL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.59, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FLBL and VYM?
FLBL and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 602 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FLBL or VYM?
FLBL yields 7.40% while VYM yields 2.86%, so FLBL currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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