BTC vs VYM
Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust 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 | BTC | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.15% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $3.8B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -29.37% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | -46.78% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 45.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -53.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Grayscale | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 31, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
BTC vs VYM Performance
Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (BTC) is a ETF from Grayscale and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BTC returned -46.78% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, BTC is down 29.37% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
BTC has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 45.2% 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 -53.3% for BTC 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 0.13. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BTC charges 0.15% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $15 vs $4 annually, a gap of $11 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BTC currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BTC or VYM?
BTC has an expense ratio of 0.15% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $11 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BTC or VYM?
Over the past year BTC returned -46.78% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), BTC annualized -1.51% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BTC or VYM?
BTC has been the more volatile fund at 45.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: BTC -53.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both BTC and VYM?
BTC and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.13, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, BTC or VYM?
BTC yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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