ETHE vs VYM
Grayscale Ethereum Staking 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 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ETHE | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $1.5B | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.50% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 1 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -39.10% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -51.28% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +14.64% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -10.37% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 112.7% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -96.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Grayscale | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 14, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ETHE vs VYM Performance
Grayscale Ethereum Staking ETF (ETHE) is a ETF from Grayscale and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ETHE returned -51.28% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, ETHE is down 39.10% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, ETHE compounded at +14.64% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -10.37% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 7-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -8.63%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ETHE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 112.7% 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 -96.3% for ETHE 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 0.19. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ETHE charges 2.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $250 vs $4 annually, a gap of $246 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ETHE currently yields 1.50% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ETHE or VYM?
ETHE has an expense ratio of 2.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $246 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ETHE or VYM?
Over the past year ETHE returned -51.28% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (7 years), ETHE annualized -8.63% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ETHE or VYM?
ETHE has been the more volatile fund at 112.7% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ETHE -96.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ETHE and VYM?
ETHE and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.19, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, ETHE or VYM?
ETHE yields 1.50% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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