HFGO vs VYM
HFGO vs VYM
Hartford Large Cap Growth 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 | HFGO | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.59% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $198M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 48 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.25% | +15.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.09% | +25.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.97% | +17.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 22.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -44.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 9, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HFGO vs VYM Performance
Hartford Large Cap Growth ETF (HFGO) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HFGO returned +14.09% while VYM returned +25.56%. Year to date, HFGO is up 8.25% versus a gain of 15.20% for VYM.
Over three years, HFGO compounded at +23.97% per year against +17.86% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, HFGO has the edge at +8.99% annualized vs +7.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HFGO has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 22.6% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -44.6% for HFGO 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HFGO charges 0.59% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $59 vs $4 annually, a gap of $55 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HFGO currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HFGO and VYM share 5 holdings out of 600 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in HFGO | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AVGO | 6.13% | 6.47% | 0.34% |
| GLW | 1.85% | 0.51% | 1.34% |
| STX | 1.51% | 0.38% | 1.13% |
| EVR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| FTAI | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 5 holdings HFGO shares with VYM Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. Get FundXLS Pro: $29/moFirst 500 subscribers, then $49/mo. Cancel anytime. | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HFGO or VYM?
HFGO has an expense ratio of 0.59% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $55 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HFGO or VYM?
Over the past year HFGO returned +14.09% vs +25.56% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), HFGO annualized +8.99% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HFGO or VYM?
HFGO has been the more volatile fund at 22.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: HFGO -44.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HFGO and VYM?
HFGO and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HFGO and VYM?
HFGO and VYM share 5 common holdings with a 7.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 600 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HFGO or VYM?
HFGO yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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