FTCB vs VYM
FTCB vs VYM
First Trust Core Investment Grade 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 | FTCB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.56% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.5B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.24% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 721 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.42% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.86% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -5.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 7, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
FTCB vs VYM Performance
First Trust Core Investment Grade ETF (FTCB) 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 FTCB returned +2.86% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, FTCB is down 0.42% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 5.2% for FTCB. 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 -5.0% for FTCB 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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
FTCB charges 0.56% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $56 vs $4 annually, a gap of $52 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, FTCB currently yields 5.24% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
FTCB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 889 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, FTCB or VYM?
FTCB has an expense ratio of 0.56% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $52 per year of difference.
Which performed better, FTCB or VYM?
Over the past year FTCB returned +2.86% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), FTCB annualized +5.61% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, FTCB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.2% for FTCB. Worst drawdown: FTCB -5.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both FTCB and VYM?
FTCB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between FTCB and VYM?
FTCB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 889 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, FTCB or VYM?
FTCB yields 5.24% while VYM yields 2.86%, so FTCB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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