CSA vs VYM
VictoryShares US Small Cap Volatility Wtd 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 | CSA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.35% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $20M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.50% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 507 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -10.11% | +16.42% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.59% | +24.22% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.64% | +19.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +15.99% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 20.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -42.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Victory Capital Management Inc. | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 7, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CSA vs VYM Performance
VictoryShares US Small Cap Volatility Wtd ETF (CSA) is a ETF from Victory Capital Management Inc. and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CSA returned +0.59% while VYM returned +24.22%. Year to date, CSA is down 10.11% versus a gain of 16.42% for VYM.
Over three years, CSA compounded at +3.64% per year against +19.03% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +15.99% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 10-year window we track, CSA has the edge at +8.20% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CSA has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 20.5% 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 -42.4% for CSA 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 0.87. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CSA charges 0.35% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $35 vs $4 annually, a gap of $31 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CSA currently yields 1.50% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CSA or VYM?
CSA has an expense ratio of 0.35% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $31 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CSA or VYM?
Over the past year CSA returned +0.59% vs +24.22% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (10 years), CSA annualized +8.20% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CSA or VYM?
CSA has been the more volatile fund at 20.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: CSA -42.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CSA and VYM?
CSA and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.87, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, CSA or VYM?
CSA yields 1.50% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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