CBLS vs VYM
Clough Hedged Equity ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. CBLS delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | CBLS | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.90% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $57M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.82% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 77 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +6.30% | +15.75% | |
| 1Y Return | +38.20% | +23.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.54% | +19.14% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.45% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -32.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Changebridge Capital | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 13, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CBLS vs VYM Performance
Clough Hedged Equity ETF (CBLS) is a ETF from Changebridge Capital and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CBLS returned +38.20% while VYM returned +23.85%. Year to date, CBLS is up 6.30% versus a gain of 15.75% for VYM.
Over three years, CBLS compounded at +6.54% per year against +19.14% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, CBLS has the edge at +8.27% annualized vs +7.06%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CBLS has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.2% 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 -32.8% for CBLS 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 0.50. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CBLS charges 1.90% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $190 vs $4 annually, a gap of $186 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CBLS currently yields 0.82% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CBLS and VYM share 29 holdings out of 646 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CBLS or VYM?
CBLS has an expense ratio of 1.90% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $186 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CBLS or VYM?
Over the past year CBLS returned +38.20% vs +23.85% for VYM, so CBLS leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), CBLS annualized +8.27% vs +7.06% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CBLS or VYM?
CBLS has been the more volatile fund at 17.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: CBLS -32.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CBLS and VYM?
CBLS and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.50, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CBLS and VYM?
CBLS and VYM share 29 common holdings with a 7.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 646 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CBLS or VYM?
CBLS yields 0.82% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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