LMBS vs VYM
LMBS vs VYM
First Trust Low Duration Opportunities ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. LMBS offers more diversification with 764 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LMBS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $6.4B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.10% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,213 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +1.77% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.18% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.63% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.10% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -8.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | First Trust Portfolios (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 4, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
LMBS vs VYM Performance
First Trust Low Duration Opportunities ETF (LMBS) is a ETF from First Trust Portfolios (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LMBS returned +4.18% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, LMBS is up 1.77% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, LMBS compounded at +5.63% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.10% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +1.51%. 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 2.2% for LMBS. 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 -8.5% for LMBS 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 0.38. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LMBS charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LMBS currently yields 4.10% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
LMBS and VYM share 0 holdings out of 1322 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, LMBS or VYM?
LMBS has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LMBS or VYM?
Over the past year LMBS returned +4.18% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), LMBS annualized +1.51% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LMBS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.2% for LMBS. Worst drawdown: LMBS -8.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both LMBS and VYM?
LMBS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.38, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LMBS and VYM?
LMBS and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1322 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LMBS or VYM?
LMBS yields 4.10% while VYM yields 2.86%, so LMBS currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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