HYDB vs VYM
HYDB vs VYM
iShares High Yield Systematic 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 | HYDB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.6B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.99% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 265 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -2.09% | +15.57% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.55% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.02% | +18.02% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.71% | +12.71% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 11, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HYDB vs VYM Performance
iShares High Yield Systematic Bond ETF (HYDB) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HYDB returned +0.55% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, HYDB is down 2.09% versus a gain of 15.57% for VYM.
Over three years, HYDB compounded at +7.02% per year against +18.02% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.71% and +12.71% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.94%. 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 7.7% for HYDB. 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 -21.6% for HYDB 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 0.77. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HYDB charges 0.35% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $4 annually, a gap of $31 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HYDB currently yields 6.99% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HYDB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 761 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, HYDB or VYM?
HYDB has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $31 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HYDB or VYM?
Over the past year HYDB returned +0.55% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), HYDB annualized +4.94% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HYDB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 7.7% for HYDB. Worst drawdown: HYDB -21.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HYDB and VYM?
HYDB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.77, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HYDB and VYM?
HYDB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 761 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HYDB or VYM?
HYDB yields 6.99% while VYM yields 2.86%, so HYDB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular ETF Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.