KMLI vs VYM

Quick Verdict

VYM has a lower expense ratio. VYM delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.

Lower Fees: VYMHigher Returns: VYMMore Diversified: VYM

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricKMLIVYMWinner
Expense Ratio1.26%0.04%
AUM$8M$79.0B
Dividend Yield17.87%2.86%
Holdings2568
YTD Return-29.07%+16.53%
1Y Return-55.36%+25.03%
3Y Return (annualized)-+18.54%
5Y Return (annualized)-+12.25%
Volatility (annualized)49.9%14.6%
Max Drawdown-73.2%-58.8%
Fund FamilyKraneSharesVanguard (US)
CategoryAlternativeEquity
InceptionJun 11, 2025Nov 10, 2006

KMLI vs VYM Performance

KraneShares 2x Long MELI Daily ETF (KMLI) is a ETF from KraneShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year KMLI returned -55.36% while VYM returned +25.03%. Year to date, KMLI is down 29.07% versus a gain of 16.53% for VYM.

Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns

KMLI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 49.9% 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 -73.2% for KMLI 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

KMLI charges 1.26% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $126 vs $4 annually, a gap of $122 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, KMLI currently yields 17.87% against 2.86% for VYM.

Holdings Overlap

0.0%overlap

KMLI 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, KMLI or VYM?

KMLI has an expense ratio of 1.26% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $122 per year of difference.

Which performed better, KMLI or VYM?

Over the past year KMLI returned -55.36% vs +25.03% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (1 years), KMLI annualized -52.19% vs +7.10% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Which is riskier, KMLI or VYM?

KMLI has been the more volatile fund at 49.9% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: KMLI -73.2% vs VYM -58.8%.

Should I hold both KMLI and VYM?

KMLI 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 KMLI and VYM?

KMLI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.

Which pays a higher dividend, KMLI or VYM?

KMLI yields 17.87% while VYM yields 2.86%, so KMLI currently pays the higher dividend yield.

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