ITAN vs VYM
Sparkline Intangible Value ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. ITAN delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 613 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | ITAN | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $119M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.03% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 160 | 613 | |
| YTD Return | +20.94% | +14.87% | |
| 1Y Return | +34.85% | +21.39% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +23.51% | +18.69% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +12.43% | +11.98% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 17.5% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -30.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Sparkline Capital | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 29, 2021 | Nov 10, 2006 |
ITAN vs VYM Performance
Sparkline Intangible Value ETF (ITAN) is a ETF from Sparkline Capital and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year ITAN returned +34.85% while VYM returned +21.39%. Year to date, ITAN is up 20.94% versus a gain of 14.87% for VYM.
Over three years, ITAN compounded at +23.51% per year against +18.69% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +12.43% and +11.98% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, ITAN has the edge at +12.89% annualized vs +7.00%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
ITAN has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.5% compared with 14.5% 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 -30.4% for ITAN 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 0.82. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
ITAN charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, ITAN currently yields 1.03% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
ITAN and VYM share 67 holdings out of 696 unique holdings combined, representing a 17.1% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, ITAN or VYM?
ITAN has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, ITAN or VYM?
Over the past year ITAN returned +34.85% vs +21.39% for VYM, so ITAN leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), ITAN annualized +12.89% vs +7.00% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, ITAN or VYM?
ITAN has been the more volatile fund at 17.5% annualized versus 14.5% for VYM. Worst drawdown: ITAN -30.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both ITAN and VYM?
ITAN and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.82, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between ITAN and VYM?
ITAN and VYM share 67 common holdings with a 17.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 696 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, ITAN or VYM?
ITAN yields 1.03% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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