CDX vs VYM
CDX vs VYM
Simplify High Yield 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 | CDX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.25% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $377M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 8.31% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 227 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -1.94% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -3.14% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +7.23% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 7.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -13.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 14, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CDX vs VYM Performance
Simplify High Yield ETF (CDX) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CDX returned -3.14% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, CDX is down 1.94% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, CDX compounded at +7.23% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs +4.05%. 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 7.5% for CDX. 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 -13.2% for CDX 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 0.54. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CDX charges 0.25% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $25 vs $4 annually, a gap of $21 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CDX currently yields 8.31% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CDX and VYM share 38 holdings out of 676 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in CDX | Weight in VYM | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| JNJ | 0.27% | 2.62% | 2.35% |
| PM | 0.27% | 1.28% | 1.01% |
| IBM | 0.25% | 0.98% | 0.73% |
| ABT | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ACN | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SBUX | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| ITW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| VZ | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| SLB:CW | Pro | Pro | Pro |
| BKR | Pro | Pro | Pro |
See all 10 holdings CDX shares with VYM Exact weights in each fund and the difference, for every overlapping position. X-ray my whole portfolio$99/yr Pro · 7-day refund | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CDX or VYM?
CDX has an expense ratio of 0.25% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $21 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CDX or VYM?
Over the past year CDX returned -3.14% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), CDX annualized +4.05% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CDX or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 7.5% for CDX. Worst drawdown: CDX -13.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CDX and VYM?
CDX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.54, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between CDX and VYM?
CDX and VYM share 38 common holdings with a 3.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 676 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CDX or VYM?
CDX yields 8.31% while VYM yields 2.86%, so CDX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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