MFSV vs VYM
MFS Active 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 | MFSV | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.44% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $562M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 1.37% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 62 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | +12.71% | +16.10% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.08% | +25.99% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | - | +18.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | - | +12.35% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 8.9% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -12.7% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | MFS Investment Management | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 5, 2024 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MFSV vs VYM Performance
MFS Active Value ETF (MFSV) is a ETF from MFS Investment Management and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MFSV returned +21.08% while VYM returned +25.99%. Year to date, MFSV is up 12.71% 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 8.9% for MFSV. 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 -12.7% for MFSV 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 0.86. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MFSV charges 0.44% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $44 vs $4 annually, a gap of $40 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MFSV currently yields 1.37% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MFSV and VYM share 40 holdings out of 581 unique holdings combined, representing a 31.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, MFSV or VYM?
MFSV has an expense ratio of 0.44% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $40 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MFSV or VYM?
Over the past year MFSV returned +21.08% vs +25.99% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (2 years), MFSV annualized +13.21% vs +7.08% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MFSV or VYM?
VYM has been the more volatile fund at 14.6% annualized versus 8.9% for MFSV. Worst drawdown: MFSV -12.7% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MFSV and VYM?
MFSV and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.86, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MFSV and VYM?
MFSV and VYM share 40 common holdings with a 31.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 581 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MFSV or VYM?
MFSV yields 1.37% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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