LQDB vs VYM
LQDB vs VYM
iShares BBB Rated Corporate Bond ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. LQDB offers more diversification with 1126 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LQDB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $59M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.68% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1,673 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.33% | +15.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.93% | +25.56% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.30% | +17.86% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.21% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 18, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
LQDB vs VYM Performance
iShares BBB Rated Corporate Bond ETF (LQDB) 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 LQDB returned +1.93% while VYM returned +25.56%. Year to date, LQDB is down 0.33% versus a gain of 15.20% for VYM.
Over three years, LQDB compounded at +5.30% per year against +17.86% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.21% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +0.75%. 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 7.8% for LQDB. 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 -21.6% for LQDB 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 0.63. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LQDB charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LQDB currently yields 4.68% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LQDB or VYM?
LQDB has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LQDB or VYM?
Over the past year LQDB returned +1.93% vs +25.56% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), LQDB annualized +0.75% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LQDB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 7.8% for LQDB. Worst drawdown: LQDB -21.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both LQDB and VYM?
LQDB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.63, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LQDB and VYM?
LQDB and VYM share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1682 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LQDB or VYM?
LQDB yields 4.68% while VYM yields 2.86%, so LQDB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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