AMZA vs VYM
InfraCap MLP ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. AMZA delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | AMZA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.72% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $466M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.16% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 86 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +29.18% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +28.02% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.23% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +23.47% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 39.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -96.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Virtus Investment Partners | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 1, 2014 | Nov 10, 2006 |
AMZA vs VYM Performance
InfraCap MLP ETF (AMZA) is a ETF from Virtus Investment Partners and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year AMZA returned +28.02% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, AMZA is up 29.18% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, AMZA compounded at +23.23% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +23.47% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 12-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.09% annualized vs -9.28%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
AMZA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 39.9% 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 -96.7% for AMZA 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 0.71. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
AMZA charges 1.72% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $172 vs $4 annually, a gap of $168 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, AMZA currently yields 8.16% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
AMZA and VYM share 8 holdings out of 579 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, AMZA or VYM?
AMZA has an expense ratio of 1.72% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $168 per year of difference.
Which performed better, AMZA or VYM?
Over the past year AMZA returned +28.02% vs +26.05% for VYM, so AMZA leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (12 years), AMZA annualized -9.28% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, AMZA or VYM?
AMZA has been the more volatile fund at 39.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: AMZA -96.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both AMZA and VYM?
AMZA and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.71, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between AMZA and VYM?
AMZA and VYM share 8 common holdings with a 2.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 579 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, AMZA or VYM?
AMZA yields 8.16% while VYM yields 2.86%, so AMZA currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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