IMTM vs VYM
IMTM vs VYM
iShares MSCI Intl Momentum Factor 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 | IMTM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $4.1B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.36% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 326 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +10.26% | +15.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.96% | +25.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +20.94% | +17.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.85% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 13, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IMTM vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI Intl Momentum Factor ETF (IMTM) 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 IMTM returned +20.96% while VYM returned +25.56%. Year to date, IMTM is up 10.26% versus a gain of 15.20% for VYM.
Over three years, IMTM compounded at +20.94% per year against +17.86% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +9.85% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, IMTM has the edge at +8.05% annualized vs +7.05%. 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 13.8% for IMTM. 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 -30.7% for IMTM 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 0.79. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMTM charges 0.30% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $30 vs $4 annually, a gap of $26 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMTM currently yields 4.36% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IMTM and VYM share 0 holdings out of 855 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, IMTM or VYM?
IMTM has an expense ratio of 0.30% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $26 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMTM or VYM?
Over the past year IMTM returned +20.96% vs +25.56% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), IMTM annualized +8.05% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMTM or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.8% for IMTM. Worst drawdown: IMTM -30.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IMTM and VYM?
IMTM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.79, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IMTM and VYM?
IMTM and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 855 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMTM or VYM?
IMTM yields 4.36% while VYM yields 2.86%, so IMTM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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