HCRB vs VYM
HCRB vs VYM
Hartford Core Bond ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. HCRB offers more diversification with 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HCRB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $401M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.03% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 852 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -2.40% | +15.20% | |
| 1Y Return | -0.56% | +25.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.58% | +17.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.75% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 6.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -19.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 19, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HCRB vs VYM Performance
Hartford Core Bond ETF (HCRB) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HCRB returned -0.56% while VYM returned +25.56%. Year to date, HCRB is down 2.40% versus a gain of 15.20% for VYM.
Over three years, HCRB compounded at +3.58% per year against +17.86% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.75% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +0.27%. 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 6.2% for HCRB. 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 -19.9% for HCRB 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 0.51. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HCRB charges 0.29% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $29 vs $4 annually, a gap of $25 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HCRB currently yields 4.03% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HCRB and VYM share 1 holdings out of 1170 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HCRB | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| KDP | 0.04% | 0.17% | 0.13% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HCRB or VYM?
HCRB has an expense ratio of 0.29% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $25 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HCRB or VYM?
Over the past year HCRB returned -0.56% vs +25.56% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), HCRB annualized +0.27% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HCRB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 6.2% for HCRB. Worst drawdown: HCRB -19.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HCRB and VYM?
HCRB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.51, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HCRB and VYM?
HCRB and VYM share 1 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1170 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HCRB or VYM?
HCRB yields 4.03% while VYM yields 2.86%, so HCRB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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