JHI vs VYM
JHI vs VYM
John Hancock Investors Trust 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 | JHI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $130M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.58% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 435 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.75% | +13.82% | |
| 1Y Return | +3.57% | +24.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +9.51% | +17.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.89% | +12.13% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 13.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | John Hancock Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 29, 1971 | Nov 10, 2006 |
JHI vs VYM Performance
John Hancock Investors Trust (JHI) 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 JHI returned +3.57% while VYM returned +24.08%. Year to date, JHI is up 1.75% versus a gain of 13.82% for VYM.
Over three years, JHI compounded at +9.51% per year against +17.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.89% and +12.13% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.98% annualized vs -0.07%. 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 13.0% for JHI. 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 -58.5% for JHI 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 0.55. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
JHI charges 2.35% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $235 vs $4 annually, a gap of $231 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, JHI currently yields 8.58% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
JHI and VYM share 0 holdings out of 875 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, JHI or VYM?
JHI has an expense ratio of 2.35% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $231 per year of difference.
Which performed better, JHI or VYM?
Over the past year JHI returned +3.57% vs +24.08% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), JHI annualized -0.07% vs +6.98% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, JHI or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 13.0% for JHI. Worst drawdown: JHI -58.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both JHI and VYM?
JHI and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.55, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between JHI and VYM?
JHI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 875 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, JHI or VYM?
JHI yields 8.58% while VYM yields 2.86%, so JHI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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