APPX vs VYM
Tradr 2X Long APP Daily 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 | APPX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.30% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $65M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -45.49% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -8.37% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +68.65% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +68.65% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 165.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -81.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Tradr ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 24, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
APPX vs VYM Performance
Tradr 2X Long APP Daily ETF (APPX) is a ETF from Tradr ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year APPX returned -8.37% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, APPX is down 45.49% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, APPX compounded at +68.65% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +68.65% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, APPX has the edge at +7.59% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
APPX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 165.8% 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 -81.4% for APPX 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 -0.11. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
APPX charges 1.30% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $130 vs $4 annually, a gap of $126 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, APPX currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, APPX or VYM?
APPX has an expense ratio of 1.30% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $126 per year of difference.
Which performed better, APPX or VYM?
Over the past year APPX returned -8.37% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), APPX annualized +7.59% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, APPX or VYM?
APPX has been the more volatile fund at 165.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: APPX -81.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both APPX and VYM?
APPX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.11, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, APPX or VYM?
APPX yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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