MFSG vs VYM
MFS Active Growth 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 | MFSG | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.49% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $353M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 0.07% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 58 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +8.95% | +16.78% | |
| 1Y Return | +11.19% | +24.43% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.30% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.6% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -23.2% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MFSG vs VYM Performance
MFS Active Growth ETF (MFSG) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFSG returned +11.19% while VYM returned +24.43%. Year to date, MFSG is up 8.95% versus a gain of 16.78% for VYM.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MFSG has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.6% 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 -23.2% for MFSG 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 0.56. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFSG charges 0.49% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $49 vs $4 annually, a gap of $45 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFSG currently yields 0.07% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MFSG and VYM share 11 holdings out of 603 unique holdings combined, representing a 10.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MFSG or VYM?
MFSG has an expense ratio of 0.49% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $45 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFSG or VYM?
Over the past year MFSG returned +11.19% vs +24.43% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MFSG annualized +12.14% vs +7.11% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFSG or VYM?
MFSG has been the more volatile fund at 18.6% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MFSG -23.2% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MFSG and VYM?
MFSG and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.56, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFSG and VYM?
MFSG and VYM share 11 common holdings with a 10.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 603 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFSG or VYM?
MFSG yields 0.07% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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