MJ vs VYM
MJ vs VYM
Amplify Alternative Harvest 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 | MJ | VYM | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.75% | 0.04% | |
| AUM | $99M | $79.0B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.33% | 2.86% | |
| Holdings | 12 | 568 | |
| YTD Return | -22.77% | +15.80% | |
| 1Y Return | +4.18% | +26.12% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -11.82% | +18.25% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -33.41% | +12.51% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 50.4% | 14.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -95.8% | -58.8% | |
| Fund Family | Amplify ETFs | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Alternative | Equity | |
| Inception | Dec 3, 2015 | Nov 10, 2006 |
MJ vs VYM Performance
Amplify Alternative Harvest ETF (MJ) is a ETF from Amplify ETFs and Vanguard High Dividend Yield ETF (VYM) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year MJ returned +4.18% while VYM returned +26.12%. Year to date, MJ is down 22.77% versus a gain of 15.80% for VYM.
Over three years, MJ compounded at -11.82% per year against +18.25% for VYM; over five years the annualized figures are -33.41% and +12.51% respectively. Across the full 11-year window we track, VYM has the edge at +7.07% annualized vs -17.78%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
MJ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 50.4% 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 MJ 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 0.43. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
MJ charges 0.75% per year while VYM charges 0.04%. On a $10,000 position that is $75 vs $4 annually, a gap of $71 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, MJ currently yields 2.33% against 2.86% for VYM.
Holdings Overlap
MJ and VYM share 0 holdings out of 568 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, MJ or VYM?
MJ has an expense ratio of 0.75% while VYM charges 0.04%. VYM is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $71 per year of difference.
Which performed better, MJ or VYM?
Over the past year MJ returned +4.18% vs +26.12% for VYM, so VYM leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (11 years), MJ annualized -17.78% vs +7.07% for VYM. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, MJ or VYM?
MJ has been the more volatile fund at 50.4% annualized versus 14.6% for VYM. Worst drawdown: MJ -95.8% vs VYM -58.8%.
Should I hold both MJ and VYM?
MJ and VYM have a monthly-return correlation of 0.43, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between MJ and VYM?
MJ and VYM share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 568 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, MJ or VYM?
MJ yields 2.33% while VYM yields 2.86%, so VYM currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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