MAXJ vs VYM
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Jun 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 | MAXJ | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.50% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $154M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.74% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 6 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +4.33% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +6.15% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -6.3% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | iShares by BlackRock (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Jun 28, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MAXJ vs VYM Performance
iShares Large Cap Max Buffer Jun ETF (MAXJ) is a ETF from iShares by BlackRock (US) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MAXJ returned +6.15% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, MAXJ is up 4.33% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VYM has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 14.6% compared with 4.3% for MAXJ. 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 -6.3% for MAXJ 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 0.70. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MAXJ charges 0.50% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $50 vs $4 annually, a gap of $46 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MAXJ currently yields 0.74% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MAXJ and VYM share 0 holdings out of 560 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, MAXJ or VYM?
MAXJ has an expense ratio of 0.50% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $46 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MAXJ or VYM?
Over the past year MAXJ returned +6.15% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MAXJ annualized +8.02% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MAXJ or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 4.3% for MAXJ. Worst drawdown: MAXJ -6.3% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MAXJ and VYM?
MAXJ and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.70, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MAXJ and VYM?
MAXJ and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 560 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MAXJ or VYM?
MAXJ yields 0.74% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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