MDLV vs VYM
Morgan Dempsey Large Cap Value 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 | MDLV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.58% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $43M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.76% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 38 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +11.19% | +16.16% | |
| 1Y Return | +17.13% | +26.05% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +12.29% | +18.43% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.21% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 10.3% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -16.6% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Morgan Dempsey | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 26, 2023 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MDLV vs VYM Performance
Morgan Dempsey Large Cap Value ETF (MDLV) is a ETF from Morgan Dempsey and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MDLV returned +17.13% while VYM returned +26.05%. Year to date, MDLV is up 11.19% versus a gain of 16.16% for VYM.
Over three years, MDLV compounded at +12.29% per year against +18.43% for VYM. Across the full 3-year window we track, MDLV has the edge at +8.08% annualized vs +7.09%. 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 10.3% for MDLV. 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 -16.6% for MDLV 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
MDLV charges 0.58% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $58 vs $4 annually, a gap of $54 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MDLV currently yields 2.76% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MDLV and VYM share 3 holdings out of 560 unique holdings combined, representing a 3.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MDLV or VYM?
MDLV has an expense ratio of 0.58% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $54 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MDLV or VYM?
Over the past year MDLV returned +17.13% vs +26.05% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), MDLV annualized +8.08% vs +7.09% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MDLV or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 10.3% for MDLV. Worst drawdown: MDLV -16.6% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MDLV and VYM?
MDLV 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 MDLV and VYM?
MDLV and VYM share 3 common holdings with a 3.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 560 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MDLV or VYM?
MDLV yields 2.76% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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