BRZU vs VYM
Direxion Daily MSCI Brazil Bull 2X ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. BRZU delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BRZU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.32% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $89M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.79% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 8 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +3.01% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +37.26% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.01% | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +0.98% | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 84.8% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 10, 2013 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BRZU vs VYM Performance
Direxion Daily MSCI Brazil Bull 2X ETF (BRZU) 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 BRZU returned +37.26% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, BRZU is up 3.01% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Over three years, BRZU compounded at +6.01% per year against +19.14% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +0.98% and +12.45% respectively. Across the full 13-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.06% annualized vs -31.05%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BRZU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 84.8% 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 -99.7% for BRZU 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 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BRZU charges 1.32% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $132 vs $4 annually, a gap of $128 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BRZU currently yields 1.79% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
BRZU and VYM share 0 holdings out of 606 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, BRZU or VYM?
BRZU has an expense ratio of 1.32% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $128 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BRZU or VYM?
Over the past year BRZU returned +37.26% vs +23.85% for VYM, so BRZU leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (13 years), BRZU annualized -31.05% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BRZU or VYM?
BRZU has been the more volatile fund at 84.8% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: BRZU -99.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BRZU and VYM?
BRZU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BRZU and VYM?
BRZU and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 606 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BRZU or VYM?
BRZU yields 1.79% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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