According to an analysis citing historical data, a $1,000 investment in the Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM), if left untouched for 20 years, could grow to nearly $6,000. This projection is based on the ETF's historical annualized total return of 9.32% since its inception in 2006, representing almost a 500% total return over the period. The analysis notes that while past performance does not guarantee future results, VYM's broad diversification across over 600 dividend-paying stocks positions it as a lower-risk option for long-term wealth growth.