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

MetricCBTYVYMWinner
Expense Ratio0.69%0.04%
AUM$5M$79.0B
Dividend Yield1.65%2.86%
Holdings5568
YTD Return-10.37%+15.80%
1Y Return-22.32%+26.12%
3Y Return (annualized)-+18.25%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.51%
Volatility (annualized)12.1%14.6%
Max Drawdown-27.8%-58.8%
Fund FamilyCalamos InvestmentsVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionJul 8, 2025Nov 10, 2006

CBTY vs VYM Performance

Calamos Bitcoin 80 Series Structured Alt Protection ETF - July (CBTY) is a ETF from Calamos Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CBTY returned -22.32% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, CBTY is down 10.37% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 12.1% for CBTY. 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 -27.8% for CBTY 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 -0.22. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.

Fees and Cost Over Time

CBTY charges 0.69% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $69 vs $4 annually, a gap of $65 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CBTY currently yields 1.65% against 2.86% for VYM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, CBTY or VYM?

CBTY has an expense ratio of 0.69% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $65 per year of difference.

Which performed better, CBTY or VYM?

Over the past year CBTY returned -22.32% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), CBTY annualized -17.95% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, CBTY or VYM?

VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 12.1% for CBTY. Worst drawdown: CBTY -27.8% vs VYM -58.8%.

Should I hold both CBTY and VYM?

CBTY and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.22, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.

Which pays a higher dividend, CBTY or VYM?

CBTY yields 1.65% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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