GDMA vs VYM
Gadsden Dynamic Multi-Asset 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 | GDMA | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $197M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.48% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 17 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +9.63% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.23% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +15.27% | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.74% | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 9.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Gadsden Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 14, 2018 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GDMA vs VYM Performance
Gadsden Dynamic Multi-Asset ETF (GDMA) is a ETF from Gadsden Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GDMA returned +18.23% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, GDMA is up 9.63% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Over three years, GDMA compounded at +15.27% per year against +18.54% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.74% and +12.25% respectively. Across the full 8-year window we track, GDMA has the edge at +9.12% annualized vs +7.10%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 9.9% for GDMA. 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 -16.7% for GDMA 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 0.48. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GDMA charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GDMA currently yields 2.48% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GDMA and VYM share 4 holdings out of 594 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GDMA or VYM?
GDMA has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GDMA or VYM?
Over the past year GDMA returned +18.23% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (8 years), GDMA annualized +9.12% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GDMA or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 9.9% for GDMA. Worst drawdown: GDMA -16.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GDMA and VYM?
GDMA and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.48, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GDMA and VYM?
GDMA and VYM share 4 common holdings with a 1.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 594 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GDMA or VYM?
GDMA yields 2.48% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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