DUG vs VYM
ProShares UltraShort Energy 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 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DUG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $30M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.55% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 7 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | -53.85% | +14.18% | |
| 1Y Return | -55.98% | +20.67% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -27.60% | +18.47% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -43.47% | +12.01% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 47.8% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 30, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
DUG vs VYM Performance
ProShares UltraShort Energy (DUG) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year DUG returned -55.98% while VYM returned +20.67%. Year to date, DUG is down 53.85% versus a gain of 14.18% for VYM.
Over three years, DUG compounded at -27.60% per year against +18.47% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -43.47% and +12.01% respectively. Across the full 20-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +6.97% annualized vs -31.59%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
DUG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 47.8% compared with 14.5% 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 -100.0% for DUG 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 -0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
DUG 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, DUG currently yields 4.55% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
DUG and VYM share 0 holdings out of 604 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, DUG or VYM?
DUG 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, DUG or VYM?
Over the past year DUG returned -55.98% vs +20.67% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (20 years), DUG annualized -31.59% vs +6.97% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, DUG or VYM?
DUG has been the more volatile fund at 47.8% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: DUG -100.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both DUG and VYM?
DUG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between DUG and VYM?
DUG and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 604 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, DUG or VYM?
DUG yields 4.55% while VYM yields 2.24%, so DUG currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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