MGF vs VYM
MGF vs VYM
Aberdeen Government Markets Income Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MGF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | - | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $99M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.50% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 456 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -1.94% | +13.82% | |
| 1Y Return | -1.43% | +24.08% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.92% | +17.72% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.34% | +12.13% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -55.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Aberdeen Asset Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 28, 1987 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MGF vs VYM Performance
Aberdeen Government Markets Income Fund (MGF) is a ETF from Aberdeen Asset Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MGF returned -1.43% while VYM returned +24.08%. Year to date, MGF is down 1.94% versus a gain of 13.82% for VYM.
Over three years, MGF compounded at +3.92% per year against +17.72% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -1.34% and +12.13% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.98% annualized vs -1.30%. 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 8.1% for MGF. 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 -55.5% for MGF 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 0.19. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Holdings Overlap
MGF and VYM share 0 holdings out of 736 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which performed better, MGF or VYM?
Over the past year MGF returned -1.43% vs +24.08% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), MGF annualized -1.30% vs +6.98% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MGF or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 8.1% for MGF. Worst drawdown: MGF -55.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MGF and VYM?
MGF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.19, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MGF and VYM?
MGF and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 736 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MGF or VYM?
MGF yields 7.50% while VYM yields 2.86%, so MGF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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