MAXI vs VYM
Simplify Bitcoin Strategy 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 | MAXI | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.31% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $26M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 67.57% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 11 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -35.96% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | -63.92% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +6.22% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 59.0% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -69.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Simplify Exchange Traded Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Sep 29, 2022 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MAXI vs VYM Performance
Simplify Bitcoin Strategy ETF (MAXI) is a ETF from Simplify Exchange Traded Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MAXI returned -63.92% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, MAXI is down 35.96% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, MAXI compounded at +6.22% per year against +18.25% for VYM. Across the full 4-year window we track, MAXI has the edge at +17.44% annualized vs +7.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MAXI has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 59.0% 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 -69.8% for MAXI 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
MAXI charges 1.31% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $131 vs $4 annually, a gap of $127 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MAXI currently yields 67.57% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MAXI 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, MAXI or VYM?
MAXI has an expense ratio of 1.31% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $127 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MAXI or VYM?
Over the past year MAXI returned -63.92% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (4 years), MAXI annualized +17.44% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MAXI or VYM?
MAXI has been the more volatile fund at 59.0% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MAXI -69.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MAXI and VYM?
MAXI 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 MAXI and VYM?
MAXI and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 559 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MAXI or VYM?
MAXI yields 67.57% while VYM yields 2.86%, so MAXI currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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