MDPL vs VYM
Monarch Dividend Plus Index 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 | MDPL | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.19% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $64M | $81.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.47% | 2.24% | |
| Holdings | 30 | 616 | |
| YTD Return | +14.47% | +14.84% | |
| 1Y Return | +14.69% | +20.88% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.34% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.04% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 16.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -14.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Monarch Funds | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Feb 12, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MDPL vs VYM Performance
Monarch Dividend Plus Index ETF (MDPL) is a ETF from Monarch Funds and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MDPL returned +14.69% while VYM returned +20.88%. Year to date, MDPL is up 14.47% versus a gain of 14.84% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MDPL has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 16.5% 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 -14.2% for MDPL 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 0.62. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MDPL charges 1.19% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $119 vs $4 annually, a gap of $115 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MDPL currently yields 1.47% against 2.24% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MDPL and VYM share 19 holdings out of 614 unique holdings combined, representing a 2.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MDPL or VYM?
MDPL has an expense ratio of 1.19% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $115 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MDPL or VYM?
Over the past year MDPL returned +14.69% vs +20.88% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (3 years), MDPL annualized +9.21% vs +7.01% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MDPL or VYM?
MDPL has been the more volatile fund at 16.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MDPL -14.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MDPL and VYM?
MDPL and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.62, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MDPL and VYM?
MDPL and VYM share 19 common holdings with a 2.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 614 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MDPL or VYM?
MDPL yields 1.47% while VYM yields 2.24%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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