AAPU vs VYM
Direxion Daily AAPL Bull 2X ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. AAPU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AAPU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.96% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $188M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 7.97% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +15.33% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +47.48% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +28.74% | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 44.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -58.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 9, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AAPU vs VYM Performance
Direxion Daily AAPL Bull 2X ETF (AAPU) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AAPU returned +47.48% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, AAPU is up 15.33% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Over three years, AAPU compounded at +28.74% per year against +18.60% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, AAPU has the edge at +22.19% annualized vs +7.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AAPU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 44.0% compared with 14.6% for VYM. 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 -58.6% for AAPU 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 0.34. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AAPU charges 0.96% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $96 vs $4 annually, a gap of $92 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AAPU currently yields 7.97% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
AAPU and VYM share 0 holdings out of 564 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, AAPU or VYM?
AAPU has an expense ratio of 0.96% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $92 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AAPU or VYM?
Over the past year AAPU returned +47.48% vs +24.43% for VYM, so AAPU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), AAPU annualized +22.19% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AAPU or VYM?
AAPU has been the more volatile fund at 44.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AAPU -58.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AAPU and VYM?
AAPU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.34, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AAPU and VYM?
AAPU and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 564 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AAPU or VYM?
AAPU yields 7.97% while VYM yields 2.86%, so AAPU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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