EFU vs VYM
ProShares UltraShort MSCI EAFE 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 | EFU | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.95% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 5.17% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -22.12% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | -30.81% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -26.49% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -16.87% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 33.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -99.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | ProShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 23, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
EFU vs VYM Performance
ProShares UltraShort MSCI EAFE (EFU) is a ETF from ProShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year EFU returned -30.81% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, EFU is down 22.12% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, EFU compounded at -26.49% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -16.87% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -20.32%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
EFU has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 33.3% 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 -99.5% for EFU 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 -0.80. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
EFU 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, EFU currently yields 5.17% against 2.24% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, EFU or VYM?
EFU 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, EFU or VYM?
Over the past year EFU returned -30.81% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), EFU annualized -20.32% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, EFU or VYM?
EFU has been the more volatile fund at 33.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: EFU -99.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both EFU and VYM?
EFU and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.80, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, EFU or VYM?
EFU yields 5.17% while VYM yields 2.24%, so EFU currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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