IQLT vs VYM
IQLT vs VYM
iShares MSCI Intl Quality 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 | IQLT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.30% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $13.6B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.41% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 325 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.99% | +15.45% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.85% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.74% | +17.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.81% | +12.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 13, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IQLT vs VYM Performance
iShares MSCI Intl Quality Factor ETF (IQLT) 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 IQLT returned +24.85% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, IQLT is up 12.99% versus a gain of 15.45% for VYM.
Over three years, IQLT compounded at +15.74% per year against +17.96% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.81% and +12.54% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, IQLT has the edge at +7.43% annualized vs +7.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IQLT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.8% 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 -32.2% for IQLT 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IQLT 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, IQLT currently yields 2.41% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IQLT and VYM share 0 holdings out of 853 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, IQLT or VYM?
IQLT 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, IQLT or VYM?
Over the past year IQLT returned +24.85% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), IQLT annualized +7.43% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IQLT or VYM?
IQLT has been the more volatile fund at 14.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IQLT -32.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IQLT and VYM?
IQLT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IQLT and VYM?
IQLT and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 853 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IQLT or VYM?
IQLT yields 2.41% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM 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.