HTRB vs VYM
HTRB vs VYM
Hartford Total Return Bond ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. HTRB offers more diversification with 1591 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | HTRB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.2B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.03% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,818 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.55% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.03% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.49% | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.18% | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Hartford Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 27, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HTRB vs VYM Performance
Hartford Total Return Bond ETF (HTRB) is a ETF from Hartford Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HTRB returned +3.03% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, HTRB is down 0.55% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Over three years, HTRB compounded at +4.49% per year against +16.97% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -0.18% and +12.26% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.96% annualized vs +0.39%. 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 5.9% for HTRB. 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 -21.1% for HTRB 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 0.46. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HTRB 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, HTRB currently yields 5.03% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, HTRB or VYM?
HTRB 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, HTRB or VYM?
Over the past year HTRB returned +3.03% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), HTRB annualized +0.39% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HTRB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.9% for HTRB. Worst drawdown: HTRB -21.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HTRB and VYM?
HTRB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.46, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HTRB and VYM?
HTRB and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2147 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HTRB or VYM?
HTRB yields 5.03% while VYM yields 2.86%, so HTRB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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