IONX vs VYM
Defiance Daily Target 2X Long IONQ 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 | IONX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.29% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $110M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.09% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -54.28% | +16.53% | |
| 1Y Return | -65.87% | +25.03% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.54% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.25% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 211.2% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -94.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Defiance ETFs, LLC | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 11, 2025 | Nov 10, 2006 |
IONX vs VYM Performance
Defiance Daily Target 2X Long IONQ ETF (IONX) is a ETF from Defiance ETFs, LLC and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year IONX returned -65.87% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, IONX is down 54.28% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
IONX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 211.2% 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 -94.0% for IONX 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 0.29. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
IONX charges 1.29% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $129 vs $4 annually, a gap of $125 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, IONX currently yields 1.09% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
IONX 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, IONX or VYM?
IONX has an expense ratio of 1.29% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $125 per year of difference.
Which performed better, IONX or VYM?
Over the past year IONX returned -65.87% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), IONX annualized -12.73% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, IONX or VYM?
IONX has been the more volatile fund at 211.2% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: IONX -94.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both IONX and VYM?
IONX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.29, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between IONX and VYM?
IONX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, IONX or VYM?
IONX yields 1.09% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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