JHCB vs VYM
JHCB vs VYM
John Hancock Corporate 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 | JHCB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $109M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.95% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 179 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.35% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.96% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.39% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.16% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -22.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | John Hancock Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 30, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
JHCB vs VYM Performance
John Hancock Corporate Bond ETF (JHCB) is a ETF from John Hancock Investment Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year JHCB returned +1.96% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, JHCB is down 0.35% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, JHCB compounded at +5.39% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.16% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +0.87%. 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 7.9% for JHCB. 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 -22.6% for JHCB 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JHCB 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, JHCB currently yields 4.95% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
JHCB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 720 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, JHCB or VYM?
JHCB 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, JHCB or VYM?
Over the past year JHCB returned +1.96% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), JHCB annualized +0.87% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JHCB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 7.9% for JHCB. Worst drawdown: JHCB -22.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both JHCB and VYM?
JHCB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JHCB and VYM?
JHCB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 720 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JHCB or VYM?
JHCB yields 4.95% while VYM yields 2.86%, so JHCB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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