BTR vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: VYMMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricBTRVYMWinner
Expense Ratio1.08%0.04%
AUM$33M$79.0B
Dividend Yield1.18%2.86%
Holdings12568
YTD Return+11.20%+15.80%
1Y Return+18.48%+26.12%
3Y Return (annualized)+5.34%+18.25%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.51%
Volatility (annualized)11.3%14.6%
Max Drawdown-16.7%-58.8%
Fund FamilyBeacon Capital ManagementVanguard (US)
CategoryEquityEquity
InceptionApr 17, 2023Nov 10, 2006

BTR vs VYM Performance

Beacon Tactical Risk ETF (BTR) is a ETF from Beacon Capital Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BTR returned +18.48% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, BTR is up 11.20% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.

Over three years, BTR compounded at +5.34% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.82%. 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 11.3% for BTR. 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 -16.7% for BTR 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.

Fees and Cost Over Time

BTR charges 1.08% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $108 vs $4 annually, a gap of $104 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BTR currently yields 1.18% against 2.86% for VYM.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

BTR and VYM share 0 holdings out of 565 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, BTR or VYM?

BTR has an expense ratio of 1.08% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $104 per year of difference.

Which performed better, BTR or VYM?

Over the past year BTR returned +18.48% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), BTR annualized +4.82% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, BTR or VYM?

VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 11.3% for BTR. Worst drawdown: BTR -16.7% vs VYM -58.8%.

Should I hold both BTR and VYM?

BTR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

What is the holdings overlap between BTR and VYM?

BTR and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 565 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, BTR or VYM?

BTR yields 1.18% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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