BLCN vs VYM
Siren NexGen Economy 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BLCN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.68% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $33M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.71% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 27 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +0.93% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.52% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.07% | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -11.21% | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 28.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -67.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | SRN Advisors | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 16, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BLCN vs VYM Performance
Siren NexGen Economy ETF (BLCN) is a ETF from SRN Advisors and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BLCN returned +0.52% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, BLCN is up 0.93% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Over three years, BLCN compounded at +2.07% per year against +19.14% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -11.21% and +12.45% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.06% annualized vs +1.11%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BLCN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 28.1% 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 -67.5% for BLCN 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BLCN charges 0.68% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $68 vs $4 annually, a gap of $64 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BLCN currently yields 2.71% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BLCN and VYM share 3 holdings out of 622 unique holdings combined, representing a 5.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BLCN or VYM?
BLCN has an expense ratio of 0.68% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $64 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BLCN or VYM?
Over the past year BLCN returned +0.52% vs +23.85% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), BLCN annualized +1.11% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BLCN or VYM?
BLCN has been the more volatile fund at 28.1% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: BLCN -67.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BLCN and VYM?
BLCN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BLCN and VYM?
BLCN and VYM share 3 common holdings with a 5.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 622 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BLCN or VYM?
BLCN yields 2.71% while VYM yields 2.24%, so BLCN currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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