MEXX vs VYM
Direxion Daily MSCI Mexico Bull 3X ETF vs Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF
Quick Verdict
VYM has a lower expense ratio. MEXX delivered stronger 1-year returns. VYM offers more diversification with 558 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | MEXX | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 1.23% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $20M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.46% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 10 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +18.60% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +69.64% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +2.57% | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +13.32% | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 71.5% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -95.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Direxion Shares ETF Trust | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | May 3, 2017 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MEXX vs VYM Performance
Direxion Daily MSCI Mexico Bull 3X ETF (MEXX) is a ETF from Direxion Shares ETF Trust and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MEXX returned +69.64% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, MEXX is up 18.60% versus a gain of 16.10% for VYM.
Over three years, MEXX compounded at +2.57% per year against +18.29% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are +13.32% and +12.35% respectively. Across the full 9-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.08% annualized vs -5.97%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MEXX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 71.5% 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 -95.8% for MEXX 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 0.65. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MEXX charges 1.23% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $123 vs $4 annually, a gap of $119 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MEXX currently yields 1.46% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MEXX and VYM share 0 holdings out of 563 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, MEXX or VYM?
MEXX has an expense ratio of 1.23% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $119 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MEXX or VYM?
Over the past year MEXX returned +69.64% vs +25.99% for VYM, so MEXX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (9 years), MEXX annualized -5.97% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MEXX or VYM?
MEXX has been the more volatile fund at 71.5% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MEXX -95.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MEXX and VYM?
MEXX and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.65, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MEXX and VYM?
MEXX and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 563 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MEXX or VYM?
MEXX yields 1.46% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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