GOF vs VYM
Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. GOF offers more diversification with 1,635 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GOF | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 2.44% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $2.4B | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 20.95% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 1,635 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -13.70% | +14.95% | |
| 1Y Return | -22.29% | +21.14% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -0.61% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -1.16% | +12.00% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -62.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Guggenheim Investments | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Jul 26, 2007 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GOF vs VYM Performance
Guggenheim Strategic Opportunities Fund (GOF) is a ETF from Guggenheim Investments and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GOF returned -22.29% while VYM returned +21.14%. Year to date, GOF is down 13.70% versus a gain of 14.95% for VYM.
Over three years, GOF compounded at -0.61% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -1.16% and +12.00% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs +0.34%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GOF has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.9% 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 -62.5% for GOF 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 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GOF charges 2.44% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $244 vs $4 annually, a gap of $240 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GOF currently yields 20.95% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GOF and VYM share 249 holdings out of 1199 unique holdings combined, representing a 1.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, GOF or VYM?
GOF has an expense ratio of 2.44% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $240 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GOF or VYM?
Over the past year GOF returned -22.29% vs +21.14% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), GOF annualized +0.34% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GOF or VYM?
GOF has been the more volatile fund at 16.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GOF -62.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GOF and VYM?
GOF and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GOF and VYM?
GOF and VYM share 249 common holdings with a 1.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1199 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GOF or VYM?
GOF yields 20.95% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GOF currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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