LABD vs VYM
Direxion Daily S&P Biotech Bear 3X 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 616 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | LABD | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.07% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $61M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 4.50% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | -68.57% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | -87.99% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -64.69% | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -47.94% | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 87.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -100.0% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | May 28, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
LABD vs VYM Performance
Direxion Daily S&P Biotech Bear 3X ETF (LABD) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LABD returned -87.99% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, LABD is down 68.57% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Over three years, LABD compounded at -64.69% per year against +18.34% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -47.94% and +12.04% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.01% annualized vs -56.25%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LABD has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 87.4% 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 -100.0% for LABD 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 -0.42. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LABD charges 1.07% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $107 vs $4 annually, a gap of $103 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LABD currently yields 4.50% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
LABD and VYM share 0 holdings out of 607 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, LABD or VYM?
LABD has an expense ratio of 1.07% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $103 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LABD or VYM?
Over the past year LABD returned -87.99% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), LABD annualized -56.25% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LABD or VYM?
LABD has been the more volatile fund at 87.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: LABD -100.0% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both LABD and VYM?
LABD and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of -0.42, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LABD and VYM?
LABD and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 607 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LABD or VYM?
LABD yields 4.50% while VYM yields 2.24%, so LABD currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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