CAOS vs VYM
Alpha Architect Tail Risk 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 | CAOS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.63% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $719M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.00% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +0.79% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.50% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.48% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -3.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Alpha Architect | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 6, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CAOS vs VYM Performance
Alpha Architect Tail Risk ETF (CAOS) is a ETF from Alpha Architect and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CAOS returned +1.50% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, CAOS is up 0.79% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, CAOS compounded at +3.48% 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 2.0% for CAOS. 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 -3.6% for CAOS 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 0.27. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CAOS charges 0.63% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $63 vs $4 annually, a gap of $59 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CAOS currently yields 0.00% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CAOS or VYM?
CAOS has an expense ratio of 0.63% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $59 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CAOS or VYM?
Over the past year CAOS returned +1.50% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), CAOS annualized +4.82% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CAOS or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 2.0% for CAOS. Worst drawdown: CAOS -3.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CAOS and VYM?
CAOS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.27, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, CAOS or VYM?
CAOS yields 0.00% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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