BOXX vs VYM
Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box 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 | BOXX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.19% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $13.2B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +2.28% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.08% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.71% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 0.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -0.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 28, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BOXX vs VYM Performance
Alpha Architect 1-3 Month Box ETF (BOXX) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BOXX returned +4.08% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, BOXX is up 2.28% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, BOXX compounded at +4.71% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.70%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 0.3% for BOXX. 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 -0.1% for BOXX 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 -0.05. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BOXX charges 0.19% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $19 vs $4 annually, a gap of $15 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BOXX currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BOXX or VYM?
BOXX has an expense ratio of 0.19% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $15 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BOXX or VYM?
Over the past year BOXX returned +4.08% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), BOXX annualized +4.70% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BOXX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 0.3% for BOXX. Worst drawdown: BOXX -0.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BOXX and VYM?
BOXX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.05, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BOXX or VYM?
BOXX yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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