LSAT vs VYM
LeaderShares AlphaFactor Tactical Focused 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 | LSAT | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.99% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $65M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.65% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 34 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +19.10% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +18.32% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +11.16% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +7.01% | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -20.5% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | LeaderShares | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Allocation/Balanced | Equity | |
| Inception | Oct 26, 2020 | Nov 10, 2006 |
LSAT vs VYM Performance
LeaderShares AlphaFactor Tactical Focused ETF (LSAT) is a ETF from LeaderShares and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year LSAT returned +18.32% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, LSAT is up 19.10% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, LSAT compounded at +11.16% per year against +18.43% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +7.01% and +12.21% respectively. Across the full 6-year window we track, LSAT has the edge at +13.38% annualized vs +7.09%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
LSAT has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% 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 -20.5% for LSAT 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 0.78. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
LSAT charges 0.99% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $99 vs $4 annually, a gap of $95 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, LSAT currently yields 1.65% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
LSAT and VYM share 13 holdings out of 575 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.9% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, LSAT or VYM?
LSAT has an expense ratio of 0.99% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $95 per year of difference.
Which performed better, LSAT or VYM?
Over the past year LSAT returned +18.32% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (6 years), LSAT annualized +13.38% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, LSAT or VYM?
LSAT has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: LSAT -20.5% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both LSAT and VYM?
LSAT and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.78, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between LSAT and VYM?
LSAT and VYM share 13 common holdings with a 0.9% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 575 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, LSAT or VYM?
LSAT yields 1.65% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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