CAML vs VYM
Congress Large Cap Growth 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 | CAML | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.65% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $399M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 39 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +5.72% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +8.68% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +17.41% | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 14.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Congress Asset Management Company | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Aug 22, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CAML vs VYM Performance
Congress Large Cap Growth ETF (CAML) is a ETF from Congress Asset Management Company and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CAML returned +8.68% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, CAML is up 5.72% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Over three years, CAML compounded at +17.41% per year against +19.22% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, CAML has the edge at +17.41% annualized vs +7.04%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CAML has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.9% 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 -21.1% for CAML 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CAML charges 0.65% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $65 vs $4 annually, a gap of $61 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CAML currently yields 0.00% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CAML and VYM share 5 holdings out of 636 unique holdings combined, representing a 8.4% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CAML or VYM?
CAML has an expense ratio of 0.65% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $61 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CAML or VYM?
Over the past year CAML returned +8.68% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), CAML annualized +17.41% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CAML or VYM?
CAML has been the more volatile fund at 14.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: CAML -21.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CAML and VYM?
CAML and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CAML and VYM?
CAML and VYM share 5 common holdings with a 8.4% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 636 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CAML or VYM?
CAML yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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