IMST vs VYM
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy 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 | IMST | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.98% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $6M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 252.16% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 5 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -32.44% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -70.05% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 48.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -75.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Bitwise | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 1, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IMST vs VYM Performance
Bitwise MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF (IMST) is a ETF from Bitwise and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, IMST is down 32.44% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IMST has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 48.9% 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 -75.6% for IMST 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 0.32. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IMST charges 0.98% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $98 vs $4 annually, a gap of $94 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IMST currently yields 252.16% against 2.86% for VYM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, IMST or VYM?
IMST has an expense ratio of 0.98% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $94 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IMST or VYM?
Over the past year IMST returned -70.05% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), IMST annualized -51.17% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IMST or VYM?
IMST has been the more volatile fund at 48.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IMST -75.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IMST and VYM?
IMST and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.32, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
Which pays a higher dividend, IMST or VYM?
IMST yields 252.16% while VYM yields 2.86%, so IMST currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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