PCRB vs VYM
PCRB vs VYM
Putnam ESG Core 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 | PCRB | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.36% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $7M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.74% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 568 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -0.43% | +13.24% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.33% | +23.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.09% | +16.97% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.26% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 5.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -7.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Franklin Templeton Investments (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 19, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
PCRB vs VYM Performance
Putnam ESG Core Bond ETF (PCRB) is a ETF from Franklin Templeton Investments (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year PCRB returned +4.33% while VYM returned +23.76%. Year to date, PCRB is down 0.43% versus a gain of 13.24% for VYM.
Over three years, PCRB compounded at +4.09% per year against +16.97% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.96% annualized vs +3.23%. 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 5.6% for PCRB. 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 -7.2% for PCRB 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
PCRB charges 0.36% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $36 vs $4 annually, a gap of $32 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, PCRB currently yields 9.74% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
PCRB and VYM share 0 holdings out of 939 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, PCRB or VYM?
PCRB has an expense ratio of 0.36% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $32 per year of difference.
Which performed better, PCRB or VYM?
Over the past year PCRB returned +4.33% vs +23.76% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), PCRB annualized +3.23% vs +6.96% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, PCRB or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 5.6% for PCRB. Worst drawdown: PCRB -7.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both PCRB and VYM?
PCRB and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between PCRB and VYM?
PCRB and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 939 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, PCRB or VYM?
PCRB yields 9.74% while VYM yields 2.86%, so PCRB currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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