GRNB vs VYM
GRNB vs VYM
VanEck Green Bond 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 | GRNB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.20% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $185M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.23% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 472 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.09% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.65% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.91% | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.40% | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | VanEck | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 3, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GRNB vs VYM Performance
VanEck Green Bond ETF (GRNB) is a ETF from VanEck and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GRNB returned +2.65% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, GRNB is down 0.09% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Over three years, GRNB compounded at +4.91% per year against +16.97% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.40% and +12.26% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.96% annualized vs +1.44%. 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 5.2% for GRNB. 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 -18.6% for GRNB 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 0.44. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GRNB charges 0.20% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $20 vs $4 annually, a gap of $16 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GRNB currently yields 4.23% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GRNB and VYM share 1 holdings out of 905 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in GRNB | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| SO | 0.10% | 0.47% | 0.37% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GRNB or VYM?
GRNB has an expense ratio of 0.20% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $16 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GRNB or VYM?
Over the past year GRNB returned +2.65% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), GRNB annualized +1.44% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GRNB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.2% for GRNB. Worst drawdown: GRNB -18.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GRNB and VYM?
GRNB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.44, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GRNB and VYM?
GRNB and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 905 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GRNB or VYM?
GRNB yields 4.23% while VYM yields 2.86%, so GRNB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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