LCR vs VYM
Leuthold Core 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 | LCR | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.83% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $69M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.32% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 36 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +1.46% | +15.34% | |
| 1Y Return | +10.81% | +23.24% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +5.53% | +19.22% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.58% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.1% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.4% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Leuthold Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Jan 3, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
LCR vs VYM Performance
Leuthold Core ETF (LCR) is a ETF from Leuthold Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LCR returned +10.81% while VYM returned +23.24%. Year to date, LCR is up 1.46% versus a gain of 15.34% for VYM.
Over three years, LCR compounded at +5.53% per year against +19.22% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.58% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, LCR has the edge at +7.80% annualized vs +7.04%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 10.1% for LCR. 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 -17.4% for LCR 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 0.89. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LCR charges 0.83% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $83 vs $4 annually, a gap of $79 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LCR currently yields 1.32% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
LCR and VYM share 0 holdings out of 637 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, LCR or VYM?
LCR has an expense ratio of 0.83% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $79 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LCR or VYM?
Over the past year LCR returned +10.81% vs +23.24% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), LCR annualized +7.80% vs +7.04% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LCR or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 10.1% for LCR. Worst drawdown: LCR -17.4% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both LCR and VYM?
LCR and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.89, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LCR and VYM?
LCR and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 637 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LCR or VYM?
LCR yields 1.32% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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