NFLT vs VYM
NFLT vs VYM
Virtus Newfleet Multi-Sector 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 | NFLT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $447M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.49% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 895 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +2.01% | +15.45% | |
| 1Y Return | +5.38% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.32% | +17.96% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +3.10% | +12.54% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -18.9% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 10, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
NFLT vs VYM Performance
Virtus Newfleet Multi-Sector Bond ETF (NFLT) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year NFLT returned +5.38% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, NFLT is up 2.01% versus a gain of 15.45% for VYM.
Over three years, NFLT compounded at +7.32% per year against +17.96% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +3.10% and +12.54% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.06% annualized vs +1.77%. 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 5.3% for NFLT. 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 -18.9% for NFLT 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
NFLT charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, NFLT currently yields 5.49% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
NFLT and VYM share 0 holdings out of 570 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, NFLT or VYM?
NFLT has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, NFLT or VYM?
Over the past year NFLT returned +5.38% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), NFLT annualized +1.77% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, NFLT or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.3% for NFLT. Worst drawdown: NFLT -18.9% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both NFLT and VYM?
NFLT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between NFLT and VYM?
NFLT and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 570 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, NFLT or VYM?
NFLT yields 5.49% while VYM yields 2.86%, so NFLT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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