GOLY vs VYM
Strategy Shares Gold Enhanced Yield 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | GOLY | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.90% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $88M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 9.33% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 15 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -19.51% | +15.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +0.07% | +23.48% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +19.80% | +19.07% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +6.71% | +12.50% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 24.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -45.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | STRATEGY SHARES | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | May 17, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
GOLY vs VYM Performance
Strategy Shares Gold Enhanced Yield ETF (GOLY) is a ETF from STRATEGY SHARES and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year GOLY returned +0.07% while VYM returned +23.48%. Year to date, GOLY is down 19.51% versus a gain of 15.60% for VYM.
Over three years, GOLY compounded at +19.80% per year against +19.07% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +6.71% and +12.50% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.05% annualized vs +1.96%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
GOLY has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 24.0% 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 -45.0% for GOLY 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 0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
GOLY charges 0.90% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $90 vs $4 annually, a gap of $86 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, GOLY currently yields 9.33% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
GOLY and VYM share 0 holdings out of 610 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, GOLY or VYM?
GOLY has an expense ratio of 0.90% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $86 per year of difference.
Which performed better, GOLY or VYM?
Over the past year GOLY returned +0.07% vs +23.48% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), GOLY annualized +1.96% vs +7.05% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, GOLY or VYM?
GOLY has been the more volatile fund at 24.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: GOLY -45.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both GOLY and VYM?
GOLY and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between GOLY and VYM?
GOLY and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 610 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, GOLY or VYM?
GOLY yields 9.33% while VYM yields 2.24%, so GOLY currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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