REFA vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: TiedMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricREFAVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.32%0.04%
AUM$6M$79.0B
Dividend Yield0.03%2.86%
Holdings207568
YTD Return+11.95%+13.82%
1Y Return-+24.08%
3Y Return (annualized)-+17.72%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.13%
Volatility (annualized)-14.6%
Max Drawdown-11.2%-58.8%
Fund FamilyColumbia Threadneedle InvestmentsVanguard (US)
CategoryEquityEquity
InceptionDec 11, 2025Nov 10, 2006

REFA vs VYM Performance

Columbia Research Enhanced International Equity ETF (REFA) is a ETF from Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Year to date, REFA is up 11.95% versus a gain of 13.82% for VYM.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -11.2% for REFA and -58.8% for VYM. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.

Fees and Cost Over Time

REFA charges 0.32% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $32 vs $4 annually, a gap of $28 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, REFA currently yields 0.03% against 2.86% for VYM.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

REFA and VYM share 0 holdings out of 768 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, REFA or VYM?

REFA has an expense ratio of 0.32% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $28 per year of difference.

What is the holdings overlap between REFA and VYM?

REFA and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 768 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, REFA or VYM?

REFA yields 0.03% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

Get Full ETF Analytics

Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.

See inside every ETF you own
$29/moCancel anytime.
Try FundXLS →