CSM vs VYM
ProShares Large Cap Core Plus 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 | CSM | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.45% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $537M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.04% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 308 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +11.42% | +14.95% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.77% | +21.14% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +21.73% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.40% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -36.1% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 13, 2009 | Nov 10, 2006 |
CSM vs VYM Performance
ProShares Large Cap Core Plus (CSM) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year CSM returned +19.77% while VYM returned +21.14%. Year to date, CSM is up 11.42% versus a gain of 14.95% for VYM.
Over three years, CSM compounded at +21.73% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.40% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, CSM has the edge at +14.90% annualized vs +7.01%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
CSM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.0% 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 -36.1% for CSM 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 0.91. They move almost in lockstep, so holding both mostly duplicates the same exposure.
Fees and Cost Over Time
CSM charges 0.45% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $45 vs $4 annually, a gap of $41 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, CSM currently yields 1.04% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
CSM and VYM share 151 holdings out of 754 unique holdings combined, representing a 25.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, CSM or VYM?
CSM has an expense ratio of 0.45% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $41 per year of difference.
Which performed better, CSM or VYM?
Over the past year CSM returned +19.77% vs +21.14% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), CSM annualized +14.90% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, CSM or VYM?
CSM has been the more volatile fund at 15.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: CSM -36.1% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both CSM and VYM?
CSM and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.91, so they move almost identically. Holding both adds little diversification - most investors pick one, usually on fees or the specific index tracked.
What is the holdings overlap between CSM and VYM?
CSM and VYM share 151 common holdings with a 25.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 754 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, CSM or VYM?
CSM yields 1.04% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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