HARD vs VYM
Simplify Commodities Strategy No K-1 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 | HARD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.78% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $82M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.15% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 96 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.98% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +15.12% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +10.26% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -21.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 27, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
HARD vs VYM Performance
Simplify Commodities Strategy No K-1 ETF (HARD) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year HARD returned +15.12% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, HARD is up 8.98% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, HARD compounded at +10.26% per year against +18.43% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, HARD has the edge at +10.55% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
HARD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -21.0% for HARD 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 0.16. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
HARD charges 0.78% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $78 vs $4 annually, a gap of $74 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, HARD currently yields 3.15% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
HARD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 559 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, HARD or VYM?
HARD has an expense ratio of 0.78% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $74 per year of difference.
Which performed better, HARD or VYM?
Over the past year HARD returned +15.12% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), HARD annualized +10.55% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, HARD or VYM?
HARD has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: HARD -21.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both HARD and VYM?
HARD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.16, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between HARD and VYM?
HARD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, HARD or VYM?
HARD yields 3.15% while VYM yields 2.86%, so HARD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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