DIG vs VYM
ProShares Ultra Energy vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. DIG delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DIG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $83M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.45% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 29 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +78.24% | +14.95% | |
| 1Y Return | +86.47% | +21.14% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.65% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +36.90% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 52.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -97.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DIG vs VYM Performance
ProShares Ultra Energy (DIG) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DIG returned +86.47% while VYM returned +21.14%. Year to date, DIG is up 78.24% versus a gain of 14.95% for VYM.
Over three years, DIG compounded at +19.65% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +36.90% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -0.98%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DIG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 52.9% 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 -97.4% for DIG 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DIG charges 0.95% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $95 vs $4 annually, a gap of $91 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, DIG currently yields 1.45% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DIG and VYM share 20 holdings out of 605 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DIG or VYM?
DIG has an expense ratio of 0.95% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $91 per year of difference.
Which performed better, DIG or VYM?
Over the past year DIG returned +86.47% vs +21.14% for VYM, so DIG leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DIG annualized -0.98% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DIG or VYM?
DIG has been the more volatile fund at 52.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DIG -97.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DIG and VYM?
DIG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DIG and VYM?
DIG and VYM share 20 common holdings with a 7.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 605 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DIG or VYM?
DIG yields 1.45% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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